A long, feminine name with a royal touch, Victoria, is making a comeback in French maternity wards, rising to 37th place in 2025.
Victoria's resurgence in France
The name Victoria is experiencing a revival in France, with 1,215 babies named Victoria in 2025, placing it 37th among feminine names. This marks a return after decades of decline.Historical popularity of Victoria
Victoria was very common at the start of the 20th century but faded in popularity for several decades. It regained attention in the early 1990s, with a record 1,535 babies named Victoria in 2021.Factors behind the comeback
The return of Victoria is attributed to its royal history, strong meaning, and international appeal. Its four syllables give it a sophisticated feel, which was popular with grandmothers in the early 20th century.Comparison with similar names
According to INSEE, Victoria has been given to 47,445 children since its resurgence, compared to 33,995 for Victoire, its Francophone counterpart. Victoire is much less prominent in recent rankings.Meaning and appeal of Victoria
The name Victoria comes from Latin, meaning "victorious." It is derived from the word "victoria," which itself comes from the verb "vincere," meaning "to conquer." This strong and positive meaning contributes to its appeal.