Verdict: Beatrice is an impeccable choice for 2025. It offers the “vintage revival” style parents love (similar to Eleanor or Charlotte) but hasn’t yet become oversaturated. It is a name that will age beautifully with your child, offering cute options for a toddler and a dignified presence on a resume.
Beatrice Overview
- Meaning: She who brings happiness.
- Gender: Female
- Origin: French/Latin
- Pronunciation: “Bee-ah-triss”
- Popularity: Fairly uncommon.
- Nicknames: Bea, Beats, Triss.
- Variations: Beatrix, Beitriss, Betrys, Bertha, Beate.
- Namesakes: Saint Beatrice of Silva.
What Does Beatrice Mean?
Beatrice is a name with a beautiful, layered history. It derives from a Latin word roughly translating to “she who brings happiness” or “blessed.” (1).
However, the etymology is actually a fascinating linguistic evolution. Originally, the name derived from the Latin Viatrix, meaning “voyager” or “traveler.” Over time, specifically within early Christian communities, the spelling shifted to incorporate beatus (meaning “blessed”), eventually morphing into Beatrix and later the French Beatrice. Therefore, the name carries a double meaning of both a “blessed woman” and a “voyager through life.”
Where Does the Name Beatrice Come From?
Beatrice comes from the French girl name Béatrice, which was the French interpretation of the Latin Beatrix (2).
The name has deep historical roots in Italy and England as well. It was brought to England by the Normans and became well-established in the Middle Ages. Its staying power is largely thanks to literature; it was immortalized as the beloved guide in Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy and later as the witty, sharp-tongued heroine in Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing.
How Popular Is the Name Beatrice?
You might think of Beatrice as an old-fashioned feminine name, and you would be right, but it is currently enjoying a major renaissance.
In the early 20th century, Beatrice was a top 50 name in the US, widely beloved for its elegance. It fell out of favor by the 1970s and 80s, dipping into obscurity. However, like many vintage gems, it is back. Beatrice is becoming more popular in the United States but is still relatively uncommon compared to titans like Olivia or Emma (3).
In 2021, it was ranked as the 565th most popular name for baby girls, compared to 970 in the year 2000 (4). This puts it in the “Goldilocks” zone: familiar to everyone, but your daughter likely won’t have to share her name with three other girls in her kindergarten class.
How Do I Pronounce Beatrice?
The standard English pronunciation is “BEE-uh-triss.” It is generally pronounced with three distinct syllables, though in rapid speech, it can sometimes sound like “BEE-triss.”
Is Beatrice a Boy or Girl Name?
Beatrice is historically and strictly a girl’s name in the United States and Europe. The “voyager” root Viatrix is the feminine form of the Latin Viator.
Variations of Beatrice
Beatrice is a global name with beautiful renderings in different languages. If you want to honor heritage or simply want a slightly different spelling, consider these options:
- Beatrix: (Latin/German/English) This version has an “x” ending that gives it a spunky, modern edge.
- Béatrice: (French) The spelling includes an accent aigu on the first “e.”
- Beatriz: (Spanish/Portuguese) A highly popular variation that adds a vibrant “z” flair.
- Beata: (Polish/German) A shorter form meaning “blessed.”
- Betrys: (Welsh) A phonetic variation from Wales.
- Beitris: (Scottish Gaelic) The traditional Scottish form.
Nicknames for Beatrice
One of the best reasons to choose this name is the versatility of its nicknames. You can choose a nickname that is sweet, tomboyish, or retro.
- Bea: Short, sweet, and incredibly chic.
- Bee: A nature-inspired spelling that is adorable for a little girl.
- Trixie: Energetic, fun, and retro.
- Triss: A modern, sleek option popularized by recent YA literature.
- Birdie: A creative, vintage nickname often associated with Beatrice due to the “B” sound and sweet nature.
- Bette: A Hollywood-glam option.
Names Similar to Beatrice
If you love the vibe of Beatrice but aren’t quite ready to commit, here are 10 names that share that same “vintage cool” aesthetic.
- Beatrix: For parents who want the same name but with a sharper, spunkier ending.
- Eleanor: Like Beatrice, this is a royal name that balances strength and softness.
- Elizabeth: The ultimate timeless classic with endless nickname options.
- Florence: A vintage place name that has returned to style with a similar “soft” sound.
- Matilda: Quirky, literary (thanks to Roald Dahl), and vintage.
- Cordelia: Another Shakespearean name with elegance and history.
- Bernice: Shares the “B” initial and vintage feel, though much rarer today.
- Iris: A flower name that was popular in the same era as Beatrice.
- Theodora: A long, dignified name with great nicknames (Thea, Teddy).
- Louisa: A literary classic (Little Women) that is gentle and strong.
Middle Names for Beatrice
Because Beatrice is a three-syllable name with a solid, consonant-heavy ending, it pairs beautifully with shorter, softer middles.
Classic Middle Names
These pairings lean into the regal and timeless nature of the name.
Nature-Inspired Middle Names
To soften the name and give it a whimsical touch, try a botanical middle.
Modern Middle Names
Pairing an old-fashioned first name with a punchy, modern middle creates a cool contrast.
- Beatrice Quinn
- Beatrice Sloane
- Beatrice Blair
- Beatrice Wren
- Beatrice Scout
Sibling Names for Beatrice
Building a sibset around Beatrice is fun because the name fits into so many categories: Royal, Vintage, and Literary.
For a Brother
- William: A perfect match in terms of classic status and royal history.
- Ambrose: A soft, vintage name that feels distinguished.
- Frederick: Friendly and classic, with the matching nickname potential of “Freddie” and “Bea.”
- Arthur: Mythological and strong, it shares the vintage revival trend.
- Theodore: A very popular choice that matches Beatrice’s length and warmth.
- Benedict: Shares the Latin roots and the “B” initial without being too matchy.
For a Sister
- Emma: A literary sister (Austen) that feels right at home with Beatrice.
- Penelope: Another Greek/Classic name that has a great rhythm alongside Beatrice.
- Josephine: Shares the vintage charm and nickname versatility (Josie/Bea).
- Margot: French origin, chic, and sophisticated.
- Adelaide: A vintage name with royal connections.
- Genevieve: A longer, romantic name that holds its own against Beatrice.
Famous People Named Beatrice
This name has graced princesses, actresses, and athletes.
- Princess Beatrice: Granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth II. She is perhaps the most famous modern bearer of the name, cementing its association with royalty.
- Bea Arthur: (Born Bernice Frankel, but famous as Bea). An American television icon known for The Golden Girls. She brings a sense of humor and toughness to the name.
- Beatrice McCartney: Daughter of legendary musician Paul McCartney.
- Beatrice “Tris” Prior: While fictional, the actress Shailene Woodley brought this character to life in the Divergent film series.
- Beatrice M. Hinkle: American writer and feminist (5), known for her intellect.
- Beatrice Lanza: A famous triathlete (6), proving the name has athletic endurance.
Beatrice in Pop Culture
- Beatrice: The muse in Dante’s Divine Comedy. She represents divine love and guides the narrator through Heaven.
- Beatrice: The sharp-witted protagonist in Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing. She is considered one of Shakespeare’s strongest and most intelligent female characters.
- Beatrice Baudelaire: A mysterious and central figure in Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events.
- Tris (Beatrice) Prior: The brave heroine of the dystopian novel and movie series Divergent. She chooses the “Dauntless” (brave) faction, giving the name a tough, warrior vibe.
- Beatrice Grimaldi: A princess in the TV series Gossip Girl.
FAQs About the Name Beatrice
Here are the most common questions parents ask when considering this timeless name.
Does the Name Beatrice Appear in the Bible?
No, the name Beatrice does not appear in the Bible. However, it is deeply connected to Christian history due to the “blessed” meaning (Beatus) and is often categorized alongside biblical girl names by parents looking for spiritual meanings.
What Does Beatrice Mean in Hebrew?
Beatrice is of Latin origin, not Hebrew. However, if you are looking for a Hebrew equivalent with a similar meaning, the name “Asher” means happy or blessed, and “Baruch” means blessed.
Is Beatrice a Saint’s Name?
Yes, Saint Beatrice of Silva was a Portuguese noblewoman and saint in the 15th century (7). She founded the Order of the Immaculate Conception. Her feast day is often celebrated in August or September depending on the calendar.
What Kind of Personality Is Associated With Beatrice?
Because of its strong literary ties to Shakespeare and Dante, Beatrice is often associated with a personality that is witty, intelligent, and articulate. The nickname “Trixie” suggests a fun, playful side, while “Bea” suggests a gentle and nurturing soul.
Is Beatrice a Nice Name?
Beatrice is widely considered a sophisticated and lovely name. It avoids the trendiness of modern invented names, offering a sense of stability and grace. It is particularly popular among parents who value education, literature, and history.
Is Beatrice Too Old-Fashioned To Name My Daughter?
Not at all. While it is a vintage name, it fits perfectly into the current trend of “grandmillennial” names alongside Hazel, Olive, and Evelyn. It feels fresh again rather than dated. It is a strong name that stands out.
Is There a Boy Version of the Name Beatrice?
The direct masculine equivalent is the Latin name Viator (meaning voyager) or Beatus (meaning blessed), though neither is common in English. The closest common male names that share the “blessed” meaning are Benedict or Bennett.
What Are the Most Common Alternative Spellings?
The most common alternative is “Beatrix,” which ends in an “x.” In Spanish and Portuguese speaking cultures, “Beatriz” is the standard spelling. The French variation “Béatrice” is also recognized but less common in English-speaking countries without the accent mark.
