Expert pinpoints 'real reason' Harry and Meghan often shorten Lilibet's name

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle announced the birth of their daughter, Lilibet Diana Mountbatten-Windsor, just days after her birth in June 2021. Lilibet's name is a tribute to her late great-grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II.

The late Queen, who passed away in 2022, was known as 'Lilibet' during her childhood and it was also an endearing nickname used by those closest to her - including her late husband, Prince Philip. After announcing her birth, Meghan and Harry revealed that they would often refer to their daughter as 'Lili'. The shortened version of Lilibet was used both in the official statement released by their office and in a message issued by the pair themselves.

The official statement released just days after the young royal's birth read: "It is with great joy that Prince Harry and Meghan, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, welcome their daughter, Lilibet 'Lili' Diana Mountbatten-Windsor, to the world."

The couple's own personal message read: "On June 4th, we were blessed with the arrival of our daughter, Lili. She is more than we could have ever imagined, and we remain grateful for the love and prayers we've felt from across the globe. Thank you for your continued kindness and support during this very special time for our family."

Speaking about the couple's decision to shorten their daughter's name, royal expert Christine Ross suggested that it could be down to Meghan and Harry's wishes to give their children as normal of a childhood as possible.

As well as Lilibet, who is now four, the couple are also proud parents to six-year-old Prince Archie.

Ms Ross previously told the Express: "There is certainly a trend in baby names of giving family names, but shortening the name to give the new baby their own identity.

"Lili is a much more common name than Lilibet, and lends to Meghan and Harry's desire for their children to have as normal a childhood as possible."

During an appearance in Nigeria last year, Meghan spoke of her daughter - and referred to her as 'Lili'. Speaking just weeks before Lilibet's third birthday, Meghan told students: "Our daughter, Lili, she's much, much tinier than you guys. She's about to turn three. And a few weeks ago she looked at me and she would just see the reflection in my eyes. And she [goes], 'Mama, I see me in you'."