lilli

Lilli is a feminine given name used in German-speaking countries and other parts of the world. It is often a diminutive form of Elisabeth or Lieselotte, and can also be used as a standalone name. The form is related to the name Lily and appears in various languages with similar spellings and pronunciations.

Lilli may also refer to the Bild-Lilli doll, a fashion doll created in West Germany in the 1950s. The character Lilli originated in the German tabloid Bild-Zeitung, and the doll was marketed as a novelty for adults. In 1959, Mattel acquired the rights to the design and adapted it for a younger audience, launching Barbie, a fashion doll that became globally popular. The Bild-Lilli doll is widely considered the direct inspiration for Barbie, though the two differ in target audience and marketing.

Notable people with the given name include Lilli Palmer (1906–1986), a German actress known for her work in European cinema and theatre. The name has been borne by other figures in arts, media, and public life, reflecting its continued use in various cultures.

See also Lily, Lillian, and Lila for related given names.