Violet is the English name of the small purple flower and, by extension, the colour. Both come from the Latin viola, used since ancient Rome for the flower. In Greek and Roman mythology, violets sprang up where Aphrodite's tears fell.
Violet was popular in the late Victorian era — part of the wave of botanical names (Rose, Lily, Daisy, Iris, Violet) that flourished in English-speaking countries from 1880 to 1920. It vanished mid-century and has returned beautifully in the 2010s, climbing into the U.S. top 25. The actress Violet Affleck and Jennifer Garner's daughter helped accelerate its modern rise.
Violet reduces to eight — the number of strength, leadership, and quiet ambition.