Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2025 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Vivian

      Origin 
      Latin

      Meaning 
      Alive

      Variations 
      Viviana, Viviano, Vivianna

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Vivian traces its origins back to Latin, where it emerged from the word vivus, meaning alive or full of life. This etymology aptly captures the essence of the name, as Vivian is often associated with vitality and liveliness. Throughout history, the name Vivian has found relevance in various cultures and societies.

      In ancient Roman times, the name Vivian was predominantly used as a masculine name, deriving from the Latin family name Vivianus. It was bestowed upon individuals as a way to embody and symbolize their vibrant and spirited nature. Over time, Vivian evolved into a unisex name, and by the Middle Ages, it became more commonly attributed to females, though it remains a name that can be given to both boys and girls.

      In modern-day usage, the name Vivian continues to thrive across different social and cultural contexts. It is a popular choice for newborns, embraced by parents who appreciate its timeless charm and the sense of energy it conveys. The versatility of Vivian also extends to its international appeal, as it is found across various cultures and languages such as English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese. Moreover, the name Vivian has gained recognition through notable figures in literature, film, and history, further entrenching its significance in popular culture.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Vivian.
      Smith

      is the most common surname for Vivian.

      John

      is the most common spouse name for Vivian.

      Robert

      is the most common child name for Vivian.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1920 is when there were the most people born with the first name Vivian.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.