BIG List of Middle Names for Vivian (203 Pretty Ideas)

Though once considered an elderly woman’s name, Vivian is enjoying popularity again as all classic girl’s names do. Naturally, you’ll want to pick an equally timeless middle name to go with it.

We’ve got you covered. Below you’ll find over 200 middle name ideas for your baby girl Viv from the uncommon to the traditional and every offering in between.

We also have tips on choosing the perfect middle name and how not to pick your baby’s name.

Enjoy!

Vivian Name Meaning

This pretty girl’s name originates from the Latin name Vivianus, itself deriving from the Latin word vivus meaning “alive” and “lively” – making this the perfect name for a bubbly baby, a trouble-making toddler, and a free-spirited girl!

The name of Merlin’s enchantress in Arthurian legend is also named Vivianne, lending quite a magical and lyrical feel to the name.

One-Syllable Middle Names for Vivian

Two-Syllable Middle Names for Vivian

Three-Syllable Middle Names for Vivian

Unique Middle Names for Vivian

Names Like Vivian

How To Pick the Perfect Middle Name

While only you can make the final decision, we thought it would be helpful to share some pointers to guide you on the journey.

Check the Availability

Will your child share their middle name with kids in your family and friend circle? If you absolutely adore it, then by all means stick to your guns, but it can be nice to stand out from the crowd.

Consider How It Flows as a Full Name

Does your chosen middle name flow well with your baby’s first and last name? For example, is it a wordy mouthful with three syllables each for their first, middle, and surname (which could stick out like a sore thumb during the school roll call)?

You should also test that there won’t be any inadvertent second meanings attached to the name as a whole when the middle name is added.

Do the initials spell out something unfortunate together, for instance? Or do they rhyme together (as this could sound cute to you but maybe not to your future teenager!)?

Keep It in the Family

Middle names provide a great opportunity to honor a loved one (living or passed), and as it’s not out front and center, your child doesn’t have to feel stuck with it if it seems too old fashioned.

If you don’t have a special relative’s name in mind, why not look through your family tree? Perhaps there’s a recurring name that would flow just as well with your baby’s first and last name.

Let a Loved One Choose!

If you’re really stumped for a middle name, a way to guarantee the middle name has a sweet, personal resonance to it is to let a loved one choose.

It could be a job for your baby’s big brother, sister, or grandparent. Just remind them you’re free to veto names if you hate the suggestions!

What Not To Do When Choosing Your Baby’s Name

Choosing your baby’s name should be a fun and exciting process, but there are a few common mistakes you should avoid at all costs.

1. Choosing Unusual Spellings and Pronunciations

“Jaykubbe” and “Rachiellie” may sound like cute and unique ways of spelling the common names Jacob and Rachel, but it’s probably going to annoy everyone (especially your child) when it comes to spelling it out in person and over the phone.

2. Failing To Look Up the Meanings of Names

Some baby names mean sunshine (Solana), while others can have some pretty nasty connotations, like death (Damien) and ruin or destruction (Abbadon).

So it may be wise to give your chosen name’s meaning a quick glance first!

3. Broadcasting Your Chosen Name Too Soon

Sharing your baby’s name with people for the first time can be so exciting, but sharing it out loud also cements it as more real.

The problem with this is you can quickly feel stuck with it if some reactions verge from lukewarm to downright insulting and critical, thereby tainting the name you once loved. Keep it a secret!

4. Not Considering Possible Nicknames and Shortened Versions

Benjamin Dover is a fine name, but shorten it to Ben Dover, and it becomes the kind of lame joke you’d find in a kid’s joke book.

Sound out your child’s possible full name, shortening both names and spotting what nicknames might come to mind. It can help to get a friend’s advice on this as there could be a blind spot you and your partner may have overlooked.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, the middle name choices for the name Vivian are pretty and plentiful!

Whether you’d prefer something short and sweet to counterbalance this long first name or keep the melody going with a three-syllable name, there’s sure to be a middle name above to suit all tastes.

As with your baby girl’s first name, don’t forget to check out the meaning of the name, and see how it all sounds together to root out any nicknames, inappropriate initials, or funny alliterations.

Basically, if you can imagine your child growing into their name as an adult, then you’re on to a pretty solid choice.