Delores Girl
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: duh-LOHR-ess //dəˈlɔːrɛs//
Origin: Spanish; Latin
Meaning: Spanish: sorrows; Latin: from the sea
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Delores originates from the Spanish word "dolores," which translates to "sorrows" or "pains." This term is derived from the Latin "dolor," meaning "pain" or "sorrow." The name is closely associated with the title "Nuestra Señora de los Dolores," or "Our Lady of Sorrows," a title given to the Virgin Mary in reference to her suffering and grief, particularly in relation to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The use of the name Delores in English can be traced back to the 19th century, when it began to be adopted in English-speaking countries, primarily through the influence of Spanish culture and Catholic traditions.
Historically, the name gained prominence in the 20th century, particularly in the United States, where it was popularized by various cultural references, including literature and film. One notable figure is Dolores del Río, a prominent Mexican actress in the early to mid-20th century, who contributed to the name's recognition in the English-speaking world.
Additionally, the name appears in various literary works, further embedding it in cultural consciousness. Culturally, Delores carries connotations of compassion and empathy, reflecting the sorrow associated with its etymological roots.
The name is often linked to themes of maternal care and emotional depth, resonating with the traditional image of the Virgin Mary as a figure of sorrow and strength. A diminutive form, "Lola," has also emerged from Delores, which has its own cultural significance and charm.
Overall, the name Delores encapsulates a rich tapestry of linguistic, historical, and cultural elements that contribute to its enduring presence.
Famous people named Delores
Delores Huerta is a labor leader and civil rights activist best known for co-founding the United Farm Workers and advocating for workers' rights.
Delores O'Riordan was a musician and singer best known as the lead vocalist of The Cranberries and for hits like 'Zombie' and 'Linger'.
Delores Taylor is an actress and producer best known for her role in the film 'Billy Jack' and its sequels.
Fictional characters named Delores
Delores Umbridge is a fictional character from the book and film series Harry Potter. She is a Ministry of Magic official known for her cruel and authoritarian methods at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Delores Claiborne is a fictional character from the novel Delores Claiborne by Stephen King. She is a strong-willed woman who confronts her past and the dark events surrounding her life and family.
Sibling suggestions
Similar names
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Delores was first seen in the United States in 1890.
Delores has ranked as high as #103 nationally, which occurred in 1932, and has been most popular in Illinois, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, and Minnesota.
In the past 5 years the name Delores has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Delores (2016)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| MO | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1890 | 6 |
| 1892 | 7 |
| 1894 | 8 |
| 1897 | 6 |
| 1898 | 8 |
| 1899 | 19 |
| 1900 | 19 |
| 1901 | 13 |
| 1902 | 22 |
| 1903 | 22 |
| 1904 | 28 |
| 1905 | 24 |
| 1906 | 28 |
| 1907 | 33 |
| 1908 | 47 |
| 1909 | 42 |
| 1910 | 50 |
| 1911 | 75 |
| 1912 | 111 |
| 1913 | 113 |
| 1914 | 203 |
| 1915 | 237 |
| 1916 | 271 |
| 1917 | 393 |
| 1918 | 436 |
| 1919 | 486 |
| 1920 | 733 |
| 1921 | 810 |
| 1922 | 911 |
| 1923 | 1,181 |
| 1924 | 1,324 |
| 1925 | 1,486 |
| 1926 | 1,675 |
| 1927 | 2,015 |
| 1928 | 2,810 |
| 1929 | 3,517 |
| 1930 | 4,098 |
| 1931 | 4,050 |
| 1932 | 4,152 |
| 1933 | 3,890 |
| 1934 | 3,991 |
| 1935 | 3,793 |
| 1936 | 3,760 |
| 1937 | 3,529 |
| 1938 | 3,322 |
| 1939 | 3,018 |
| 1940 | 2,929 |
| 1941 | 3,160 |
| 1942 | 3,170 |
| 1943 | 2,930 |
| 1944 | 2,756 |
| 1945 | 2,445 |
| 1946 | 2,780 |
| 1947 | 2,965 |
| 1948 | 2,840 |
| 1949 | 2,529 |
| 1950 | 2,457 |
| 1951 | 2,332 |
| 1952 | 2,191 |
| 1953 | 2,172 |
| 1954 | 1,948 |
| 1955 | 1,790 |
| 1956 | 1,845 |
| 1957 | 1,656 |
| 1958 | 1,596 |
| 1959 | 1,376 |
| 1960 | 1,345 |
| 1961 | 1,191 |
| 1962 | 1,046 |
| 1963 | 1,000 |
| 1964 | 892 |
| 1965 | 734 |
| 1966 | 700 |
| 1967 | 576 |
| 1968 | 520 |
| 1969 | 454 |
| 1970 | 442 |
| 1971 | 339 |
| 1972 | 269 |
| 1973 | 281 |
| 1974 | 231 |
| 1975 | 191 |
| 1976 | 162 |
| 1977 | 185 |
| 1978 | 168 |
| 1979 | 156 |
| 1980 | 178 |
| 1981 | 157 |
| 1982 | 148 |
| 1983 | 111 |
| 1984 | 117 |
| 1985 | 104 |
| 1986 | 84 |
| 1987 | 89 |
| 1988 | 81 |
| 1989 | 76 |
| 1990 | 92 |
| 1991 | 82 |
| 1992 | 79 |
| 1993 | 77 |
| 1994 | 71 |
| 1995 | 43 |
| 1996 | 45 |
| 1997 | 47 |
| 1998 | 38 |
| 1999 | 38 |
| 2000 | 37 |
| 2001 | 32 |
| 2002 | 22 |
| 2003 | 28 |
| 2004 | 29 |
| 2005 | 29 |
| 2006 | 25 |
| 2007 | 20 |
| 2008 | 22 |
| 2009 | 15 |
| 2010 | 14 |
| 2011 | 15 |
| 2012 | 17 |
| 2013 | 19 |
| 2014 | 15 |
| 2015 | 20 |
| 2016 | 25 |
| 2017 | 15 |
| 2018 | 20 |
| 2019 | 22 |
| 2020 | 15 |
| 2021 | 17 |
| 2022 | 13 |
| 2023 | 27 |
| 2024 | 9 |