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Pansy Girl

Popularity: · Trend: → Stable

Origin(s)

PronunciationPAN-zee / /ˈpæn.zi/

English; Latin

Meaning

English: flower; Latin: thought

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Pansy originates from the French word "pensée," which means "thought" or "remembrance." This term itself is derived from the Latin "pensare," meaning "to think." The transition from Latin to French occurred during the medieval period, and the name was later adopted into English in the 19th century, primarily as a reference to the flower of the same name, which is known for its vibrant colors and distinctive markings. The flower's name was associated with the concept of thoughtfulness, as it was often linked to the idea of remembering loved ones, particularly in the context of Victorian floral symbolism.

Historically, the name Pansy gained prominence in the late 19th century, coinciding with the Victorian era's fascination with flowers and their meanings. The flower itself became a popular motif in art and literature, symbolizing love, remembrance, and nostalgia. The name was notably used in various literary works, including those of the English poet William Wordsworth, who referenced the flower in his poetry, thereby embedding it further into cultural consciousness. The name also appears in children's literature, such as in the works of the author and illustrator Beatrix Potter, who featured a character named Pansy in her stories.

Culturally, Pansy has maintained a gentle and affectionate resonance, often associated with femininity and beauty. The flower's delicate nature and bright appearance have made it a symbol of joy and thoughtfulness. Additionally, diminutive forms of the name, such as "Pansy" itself or variations like "Pansie," have been used affectionately in various contexts. The name's connection to the flower has allowed it to endure in literature and art, symbolizing a blend of beauty and emotional depth, which has contributed to its lasting significance.

Trend Summary

Pansy has seen limited popularity in the United States, often considered an old-fashioned name.

Similar Names

Variants

International Variants

Famous people named Pansy

Fictional characters named Pansy

Pansy Parkinson is a fictional character from the book series Harry Potter. She is a Slytherin student known for her rivalry with Harry Potter and her loyalty to Draco Malfoy.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Pansy was first seen in the United States in 1880. Pansy has ranked as high as #581 nationally, which occurred in 1916, and has been most popular in North Carolina, Missouri, West Virginia, Kentucky, and South Carolina. In the past 5 years the name Pansy has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Pansy (1967)

StateBirthsShare
GA 5
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18808
18818
188211
188328
188425
188533
188643
188755
188849
188956
189057
189159
189264
189364
189476
189571
189679
189763
1898104
189982
190090
190176
190280
190389
1904106
190587
190694
1907119
1908107
1909120
1910129
1911135
1912157
1913170
1914208
1915267
1916273
1917238
1918229
1919239
1920234
1921245
1922230
1923229
1924259
1925240
1926256
1927231
1928233
1929204
1930242
1931224
1932210
1933192
1934213
1935180
1936181
1937157
1938152
1939145
1940164
1941123
1942108
1943112
194494
194583
1946111
194789
194894
194991
1950109
195198
195298
195375
195482
195574
195689
195772
195854
195962
196060
196170
196249
196359
196464
196526
196646
196741
196830
196929
197020
197131
197226
197317
197421
197522
197613
197716
197821
19799
19805
198112
198310
19855
19866
198713
19885
19895
19906
19927
19966
19985
19995
20186