Cosima Florence Grosvenor – the meaning behind the elegant name chosen by the Duke & Duchess of Westminster

The Duke and Duchess of Westminster have welcomed their first child. Born in London on July 27, they named their daughter Cosima Florence Grosvenor. But what is the meaning behind the name?

Cosima

A feminine name which originates from the Greek word Kosmos – which means “order, decency, and beauty.”

Pronounced KO-si-ma, the meaning of the name is often thought to be interpreted as “order” or “harmony”.

Cosima is a rare but elegant name, and is most famously associated with Cosima Wagner, daughter of composer Franz Liszt and wife of Richard Wagner, the German composer. She became a significant figure in the world of classical music and managed the Bayreuth Festival after her husband’s death.

Cosima is more common in continental Europe than in the UK, and has an aristocratic, artistic feel.

In recent years, it’s been used in upper-class British circles and is sometimes seen as a stylish, offbeat alternative to names like Sophia or Clementine.

Florence

From the Latin name Florentia which means “flourishing”, “prosperous”, or “blossoming”.

Florence has long been popular in Britain, especially in the Victorian era.

It is a name Most famously associated with Florence Nightingale, the pioneering nurse born in the Italian city of Florence.

The name has made a strong comeback in the UK in recent years, consistently ranking among the top 100 baby girl names.

It is a common middle name in aristocratic families.

Grosvenor

Cosima’s surname originates from Norman French, from the saying Gros Veneur, meaning “great hunter”.

The Grosvenors have held titles and vast estates since the 17th century and are closely tied to the British royal family.

Cosima Florence Grosvenor is a name rich in meaning and steeped in history. Cosima suggests harmony and classical sophistication, Florence evokes prosperity and Victorian nobility, and Grosvenor carries centuries of aristocratic prestige. 

A refined, elegant name perfectly suited to a daughter born into one of Britain’s grandest families.