Millicent as a Baby Name. Meaning and Origin of Millicent

What is the meaning of the name Millicent ?

The baby name Millicent is a Female name , 3 syllables long and is pronounced ˈmɪlɪsənt (MIL-i-sent).

Millicent is French in Origin.

Millicent traces to Old French Milicent/Melisende, ultimately from the Germanic elements amal “work, industrious activity” and swinth “strength, vigor.” The composite meaning is often rendered as “strong in work,” “industrious strength,” or “diligent.” Brought to England by the Normans, it settled early into the Middle English form Millicent.

The name appeared in medieval records before fading after the 14th century, then enjoyed a Victorian and Edwardian revival; its best-known bearer is Millicent Garrett Fawcett, the British suffragist, which lends the name a principled, capable aura. Variants and cognates include Milicent, Melisent, Melisende, and French Mélisende/Mélisande; related earlier forms include the Gothic Amalasuintha. Common diminutives are Millie/Milly, Mili, and Missy. Today Millicent reads as a tailored vintage choice in the English-speaking world, rarer than its nickname Millie but sharing its friendly sound.