Princess Eugenie has recently unveiled the name of her newborn daughter, chosen with care to honour significant figures in both her family and British history. The baby girl, born on August 3, has been named Adelaide Elizabeth Annina Brooksbank, highlighting a rich tapestry of royal connections.
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Adelaide’s first name pays homage to Queen Adelaide, the wife of King William IV, who ruled from 1830 to 1837. The name itself, derived from German, translates to “noble,” reflecting the esteemed lineage associated with it. Eugenie’s announcement was made via social media, where she emphasised that the name represents “three people we love and admire past and present, including her Great-Grandmother, whom we hold close in our hearts.”
The choice of ‘Elizabeth’ as a middle name is clearly a tribute to Eugenie’s grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away in September 2022 after a celebrated 70-year reign. Royal observer Rebecca English pointed out that ‘Annina’ carries a personal significance for Eugenie and her family, although specific details about its inspiration have not been disclosed.
Eugenie’s connection to Queen Adelaide extends beyond mere symbolism; she wore accessories from Adelaide’s collection during her wedding to Jack Brooksbank in 2018. For her evening reception, Eugenie adorned herself with diamond ear brooches that were commissioned by William IV for his wife, encapsulating the historical ties with a sense of elegance and nostalgia. This was further complemented by her choice of a blush dress designed by Zac Posen, inspired by the beauty of Windsor’s landscape, symbolising the English rose.
Furthermore, Eugenie’s choice of St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle for her wedding also holds significance, as it is the final resting place of Queen Adelaide. This connection further intertwines the new child’s name with historical royal narratives.
Interestingly, ‘Adelaide’ also nods to Portugal, where Eugenie and Jack share time, linking to Maria Adelaide, a figure of Portuguese heritage recognised as an honorary saint, though she was never formally canonised. This cultural blend of English and Portuguese influences underscored Eugenie’s reflection of her family’s diverse influences, as she described her daughter’s name as capturing “part of English and Portuguese history, two places we love and call home.”
Royal observers had anticipated that a tribute to her late grandmother would find its way into the name of Eugenie’s daughter, a sentiment that reflects the legacy of Queen Elizabeth II within her family. Many of Queen Elizabeth’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren have incorporated her name into their own, further solidifying her memory across generations.
Eugenie’s sons also bear names with familial significance; August, born in 2021, is named in honour of both his great-grandfather and multiple great-great-grandfathers. Similarly, her second son, born in 2023, is named Ernest George Ronnie Brooksbank, a name that celebrates his family lineage, connecting him to both grandfathers.
The enduring influence of Queen Elizabeth is palpable, with several of her granddaughters and great-grandchildren adopting ‘Elizabeth’ as a middle name. Princess Beatrice, Zara Tindall, and Lady Louise are among those who carry the name within their own, while Queen Elizabeth’s legacy continues through her great-grandchildren as well, with names like Lilibet—a cherished childhood nickname of the late monarch—given to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s daughter.
As Princess Eugenie navigates her role within the royal family and her own personal journey, the name of her daughter serves as a powerful reminder of shared values, love, and the deep roots of family history. Through Adelaide, the connection to both her ancestors and contemporary life is beautifully encapsulated, making the name a fitting choice for the newest member of the Brooksbank family.