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Dolores Girl

Popularity: #900 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

Pronunciationdoh-LOH-res / /dəˈloʊrɛs/

Spanish; Latin

Meaning

Spanish: sorrows; Latin: pain

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Dolores has its roots in the Spanish language, deriving from the term "Nuestra Señora de los Dolores," which translates to "Our Lady of Sorrows." This title refers to a Catholic devotion to the Virgin Mary, particularly emphasizing her suffering and grief, especially in relation to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The name entered the English language through the influence of Spanish culture and the spread of Catholicism, particularly during the 19th century when Spanish names began to gain traction in English-speaking countries.

Historically, the name Dolores became more prominent in the 19th century, coinciding with the rise of Marian devotions in Catholicism. The Virgin Mary has been a significant figure in Christianity, and the specific devotion to her sorrows can be traced back to the Middle Ages, with formal recognition in the 17th century. The name gained further recognition through literary works and religious texts, including translations of the Bible and other religious literature that highlighted the importance of Mary and her sorrows.

Culturally, the name Dolores carries connotations of compassion and empathy, reflecting the sorrowful aspects of the Virgin Mary's life. This emotional resonance has allowed the name to endure across generations. In addition, diminutive forms such as Lola have emerged, showcasing the name's adaptability within various cultural contexts. Overall, Dolores remains a name steeped in religious significance and historical depth, symbolizing both sorrow and maternal strength.

Trend Summary

The name Dolores has seen a decline in popularity in the United States since the mid-20th century.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Lola
  • Dolly

International Variants

  • Dolores (Spanish)
  • Dolorès (Catalan)
  • Dolorita (Spanish)

Famous people named Dolores

Dolores O'Riordan is a singer and songwriter best known for being the lead vocalist of The Cranberries, and for songs like 'Zombie' and 'Linger'.

Dolores Huerta is an activist best known for co-founding the United Farm Workers and her work in labor rights.

Fictional characters named Dolores

Dolores Umbridge is a fictional character from the book series Harry Potter. She is a Ministry of Magic official known for her cruel and authoritarian methods in Hogwarts.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Dolores was first seen in the United States in 1880. Dolores has ranked as high as #25 nationally, which occurred in 1930, and has been most popular in Pennsylvania, New York, Illinois, California, and Ohio. In the past 5 years the name Dolores has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Dolores (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 11
52%
NY 5
24%
TX 5
24%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188013
188110
188210
188314
188413
188511
188611
188714
188830
188918
189021
189125
189228
189331
189454
189541
189639
189748
189856
189964
190091
190168
1902108
1903114
1904138
1905142
1906183
1907192
1908212
1909220
1910294
1911363
1912522
1913706
1914934
19151,280
19161,374
19171,562
19181,835
19191,911
19202,365
19212,558
19222,714
19233,369
19243,729
19254,145
19265,219
19276,769
19289,614
192911,506
193012,842
193110,806
19329,630
19338,022
19347,689
19357,374
19366,417
19375,568
19384,809
19393,980
19403,604
19414,384
19424,267
19433,698
19443,081
19452,703
19463,064
19473,071
19482,763
19492,464
19502,226
19512,141
19522,044
19531,978
19541,963
19551,778
19561,660
19571,571
19581,525
19591,419
19601,366
19611,339
19621,273
19631,112
19641,082
1965828
1966771
1967678
1968594
1969586
1970563
1971478
1972397
1973372
1974305
1975289
1976324
1977295
1978281
1979290
1980279
1981282
1982280
1983218
1984177
1985199
1986174
1987192
1988147
1989182
1990173
1991135
1992144
1993159
1994127
1995124
1996133
1997104
1998105
199987
200088
200192
200284
200362
200464
200547
200687
200761
200862
200940
201033
201140
201237
201338
201442
201533
201650
201749
201838
201941
202055
202156
202278
202368
202450