The name Effie is a diminutive form of the Greek name Euphemia, which means "well-spoken" or "praise." It has its roots in the ancient Greek language and culture, dating back to the Byzantine era. The name Euphemia was derived from the Greek words "eu" meaning "well" and "pheme" meaning "speech" or "utterance."

Effie gained popularity as a given name during the Victorian era in the 19th century, particularly in English-speaking countries. It was often used as a nickname or diminutive form of longer names like Euphemia or Ephemia. The name had a certain charm and whimsical quality that appealed to the sensibilities of the time.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Effie can be found in the novel "The Mill on the Floss" by George Eliot, published in 1860. In the book, Effie is the nickname of the character Euphemia Turbet.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Effie. One of the earliest was Effie Gray (1828-1897), a Scottish artist who was married to the famous art critic John Ruskin. Their turbulent marriage and eventual annulment due to non-consummation became a subject of public scandal in Victorian England.

Another prominent Effie was Effie Millais (1837-1898), the wife of the English painter John Everett Millais. She was a model and muse for her husband's works, including the iconic painting "Ophelia."

In the realm of literature, Effie Belle Caldwell (1864-1933) was an American writer and suffragette who published several novels and plays under the pen name of Effie W. Merriman.

The name also found its way into the world of entertainment. Effie Marie Fateaux (1905-1988), better known as Effie Fateaux, was an American vaudeville performer and actress who appeared in several films during the 1920s and 1930s.

Lastly, Effie Marquita Millais (1884-1964) was an English artist and writer, known for her memoir "The Life and Letters of John Everett Millais," which provided insights into the life of her father, the renowned Pre-Raphaelite painter.