Origin and Meaning of Olive
Meaning & Origin
Olive tree; symbol of peace and fruitfulness
Origin: Latin - Derived from the Latin word 'oliva,' which means 'olive,' indicating both the tree and the fruit.
Interesting Facts
- The olive tree is significant in many cultures as a symbol of peace, longevity, and prosperity.
- In Christian tradition, the olive branch represents peace and reconciliation, drawing from biblical references where it was a sign of hope and new beginnings.
- Notable bearers of the name Olive include Olive Thomas, an American film actress from the early 20th century, and Olive Kitteridge, a character in the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Elizabeth Strout.
- While Olive saw a decline in popularity throughout much of the 20th century, it has experienced a resurgence in the 21st century, particularly in English-speaking countries.
- Variations and related names include Olivette (French), Oliva (Spanish), and even the diminutive form Ollie.