I see the term "Victorian" used all the time. I see it used by realtors to describe new and old properties, by TV home show designers as a catch all phrase when they really can't pin point an object's true period, and by others when describing all types of ornate pieces of furniture. The term Victorian is overused and incorrectly used.

The term "Victorian" describes a specific period in time. It is named for Queen Victoria, the daughter of Edward Duke of Kent who was the fourth son of King George III. When we note that something is Victorian, it should represent the Victorian era or the time period during which Queen Victoria (born 1819-died 1901) reigned over England. Victoria reigned from 1837 to 1901. Since Victoria reigned from 1837 until her death in 1901, this period comprises the official Victorian era. 

The Victorian period is characterized by economic progress and a constitutional monarchy in England, not to mention the industrial revolution. Also, the Victorian age was when Victoria's popularity was at its peak (from circa 1870 to 1901). Victorian design is characterized by the Queen's taste for the feminine, her interest in tradition, and a nearly obsessive interest in mourning the dead.

Victorian is a memorial style which looks back to styles and forms of the past. Victoria influenced style and continues to act as a model of the mid to late 19th century.