Lulu Girl
Origin(s)
PronunciationLOO-loo / ˈluːluːArabic; French; English
Meaning
Arabic: pearl; French: a diminutive of Louise; English: a diminutive of Lucy
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Lulu has its roots in multiple linguistic traditions, primarily deriving from the Arabic word "lulu," meaning "pearl." This term has been adopted into various cultures, often symbolizing beauty and preciousness. The name also has connections to the Hebrew name "Leah," which means "weary" or "delicate," and has been used in various forms across different languages. The transition into English can be traced through the influence of Arabic and Hebrew on European languages, particularly during the Middle Ages when trade and cultural exchanges flourished.
Historically, the name Lulu has appeared in various literary and cultural contexts. One notable instance is in the early 20th century with the character Lulu in Frank Wedekind's plays "Earth Spirit" (1895) and "Pandora's Box" (1904), where she is portrayed as a complex and tragic figure. Additionally, the name has been associated with various saints and figures throughout history, although specific references may vary across cultures. The name's presence in literature and theater has contributed to its recognition and resonance in Western culture.
Culturally, the name Lulu has been embraced for its connotations of beauty and rarity, akin to that of a pearl. In various traditions, pearls symbolize purity and wisdom, enhancing the name's appeal. The diminutive form "Lu" is also historically relevant, often used affectionately in familial and social contexts. Overall, Lulu embodies a rich tapestry of linguistic and cultural significance, reflecting themes of beauty, complexity, and emotional depth.
Trend Summary
Lulu has seen a resurgence in popularity in the United States, particularly in the 21st century.
Similar Names
Variants
- Lulu
International Variants
- Loulou (French)
- Lúcia (Portuguese)
Famous people named Lulu
Lulu is a singer and actress best known for To Sir with Love, The Lulu Show, and her hit singles such as Shout and Relight My Fire.
Lulu Wang is a filmmaker best known for The Farewell and Posthumous.
Fictional characters named Lulu
Lulu is a fictional character from the video game series Final Fantasy. She is a powerful black mage known for her intelligence and strong personality, often serving as a mentor to younger characters.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Lulu was first seen in the United States in 1880. Lulu has ranked as high as #131 nationally, which occurred in 1886, and has been most popular in New York, Pennsylvania, California, Ohio, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Lulu has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Lulu (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 12 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1880 | 249 |
1881 | 313 |
1882 | 279 |
1883 | 302 |
1884 | 344 |
1885 | 360 |
1886 | 376 |
1887 | 322 |
1888 | 367 |
1889 | 341 |
1890 | 364 |
1891 | 315 |
1892 | 325 |
1893 | 304 |
1894 | 278 |
1895 | 258 |
1896 | 228 |
1897 | 199 |
1898 | 209 |
1899 | 179 |
1900 | 196 |
1901 | 135 |
1902 | 161 |
1903 | 122 |
1904 | 151 |
1905 | 126 |
1906 | 115 |
1907 | 127 |
1908 | 120 |
1909 | 123 |
1910 | 112 |
1911 | 82 |
1912 | 125 |
1913 | 110 |
1914 | 158 |
1915 | 167 |
1916 | 198 |
1917 | 166 |
1918 | 183 |
1919 | 183 |
1920 | 177 |
1921 | 160 |
1922 | 133 |
1923 | 137 |
1924 | 113 |
1925 | 114 |
1926 | 116 |
1927 | 114 |
1928 | 79 |
1929 | 78 |
1930 | 71 |
1931 | 57 |
1932 | 65 |
1933 | 42 |
1934 | 66 |
1935 | 86 |
1936 | 92 |
1937 | 50 |
1938 | 64 |
1939 | 54 |
1940 | 41 |
1941 | 42 |
1942 | 26 |
1943 | 27 |
1944 | 28 |
1945 | 16 |
1946 | 21 |
1947 | 22 |
1948 | 24 |
1949 | 29 |
1950 | 22 |
1951 | 15 |
1952 | 22 |
1953 | 17 |
1954 | 24 |
1955 | 19 |
1956 | 21 |
1957 | 21 |
1958 | 23 |
1959 | 29 |
1960 | 17 |
1961 | 18 |
1962 | 18 |
1963 | 11 |
1964 | 14 |
1965 | 16 |
1966 | 12 |
1967 | 14 |
1968 | 15 |
1969 | 10 |
1970 | 12 |
1971 | 15 |
1972 | 16 |
1973 | 14 |
1974 | 14 |
1975 | 7 |
1976 | 8 |
1977 | 8 |
1978 | 6 |
1979 | 13 |
1981 | 6 |
1982 | 6 |
1983 | 8 |
1984 | 6 |
1988 | 5 |
1990 | 6 |
1991 | 11 |
1993 | 6 |
1994 | 7 |
1995 | 9 |
1996 | 5 |
1997 | 6 |
1998 | 14 |
1999 | 15 |
2000 | 14 |
2001 | 16 |
2002 | 17 |
2003 | 26 |
2004 | 22 |
2005 | 26 |
2006 | 31 |
2007 | 50 |
2008 | 59 |
2009 | 41 |
2010 | 51 |
2011 | 54 |
2012 | 54 |
2013 | 58 |
2014 | 52 |
2015 | 60 |
2016 | 50 |
2017 | 66 |
2018 | 63 |
2019 | 57 |
2020 | 59 |
2021 | 62 |
2022 | 63 |
2023 | 63 |
2024 | 45 |