The name Lilly is a feminine given name with roots in various languages and cultures. It is derived from the Latin name Lilium, meaning "lily" – the beautiful and fragrant flower. This floral association traces back to ancient Greece and Rome, where the lily symbolized purity, fertility, and renewal.

The name Lilly gained popularity during the Middle Ages, particularly in England and France. It was often bestowed upon girls born around Easter or during the spring season, as the lily was a prominent symbol of the Resurrection in Christian traditions. Historical records show variations like Lylie, Lili, and Lillie appearing in parish registers as early as the 13th century.

One of the earliest known bearers of the name was Liliosa, a French noblewoman who lived in the 12th century. She was celebrated for her beauty and virtue, contributing to the name's positive connotations.

In literature, the name Lilly appears in the works of renowned authors such as William Shakespeare. In his play "Love's Labour's Lost," the character Lilly is a vivacious and witty young woman, reflecting the name's association with beauty and charm.

Notable historical figures named Lilly include:

1. Lilly Martin Spencer (1822-1902), an American painter known for her genre scenes depicting domestic life.
2. Lilly Ledbetter (born 1938), an American activist who fought for equal pay and inspired the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009.
3. Lilly Wambaugh (1898-1976), an American writer and one of the first female police officers in Oregon.
4. Lilly Reich (1885-1947), a German modernist designer and collaborator with Ludwig Mies van der Rohe.
5. Lilly Jacobsson (1939-2022), a Swedish painter and sculptor known for her abstract works.

Throughout history, the name Lilly has been associated with qualities such as grace, beauty, and resilience, often drawing inspiration from the delicate yet hardy lily flower. Its enduring popularity across cultures and generations reflects its timeless appeal and symbolic resonance.