Virginia

Virginia is a Latin name derived from the Roman family name Virginius, itself connected to the Latin word virgo, meaning maiden or virgin. The name was borne in Roman legend by Verginia, a plebeian girl whose tragic fate at the hands of the decemvir Appius Claudius became a celebrated symbol of liberty in ancient Roman history. The name gained widespread use across Europe and the Americas, notably lending itself to the American state of Virginia, named in honor of Elizabeth I of England, the so-called Virgin Queen. Related forms include the Italian and Spanish Virginie, as well as the contracted nickname Ginny.