Juliette is a feminine given name with French origins, derived from the Latin name Julia. The name Julia was initially a family name, originating from the ancient Roman gens (clan) known as the Julii. The Julii clan traced their ancestry back to Iulus, the son of the Trojan prince Aeneas in Roman mythology.

The name Julia gained popularity during the Roman Imperial period, as it was borne by several prominent women, including Julia, the daughter of the Roman Emperor Augustus. The diminutive form Juliette emerged in medieval France and became a distinct name in its own right.

The earliest recorded use of the name Juliette can be found in the 12th century. One notable historical figure with this name was Juliette de Villeneuve (1311-1360), a French noble and author who wrote a popular medieval romance titled "Les Cent Nouvelles Nouvelles."

In the 16th century, the name Juliette gained literary significance with the publication of William Shakespeare's play "Romeo and Juliet." The tragic heroine, Juliet Capulet, has become one of the most famous literary characters with this name.

Another notable historical figure was Juliette Récamier (1777-1849), a French socialite and renowned beauty who hosted a famous salon in Paris during the Napoleonic era. Her salon attracted the intellectual and artistic elite of the time.

In the realm of arts and literature, Juliette Drouet (1806-1883) was a French actress and the longtime companion of the renowned writer Victor Hugo. Her letters to Hugo provide valuable insights into his life and work.

Juliette Gordon Low (1860-1927) was an influential American socialite and the founder of the Girl Scouts of the United States of America, an organization that has had a profound impact on the lives of millions of girls and young women.

Juliette Adam (1836-1936) was a French feminist, writer, and influential political activist who played a significant role in the early women's rights movement in France and advocated for women's suffrage.

These are just a few examples of notable individuals throughout history who have borne the name Juliette, each leaving their mark in various fields and contributing to the rich tapestry of cultural and historical significance associated with this name.