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Hazel Girl

Popularity: #19 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

PronunciationHAY-zuhl / /ˈheɪ.zəl/

English; Old English

Meaning

The hazel tree; nut

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Hazel originates from the Old English word "hæsel," which referred to the hazel tree, a plant known for its nuts and flexible branches. This term can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic root "*hazwō," which also relates to similar words in other Germanic languages, such as the Old High German "hasal" and the Old Norse "hesli." The name entered the English language during the early medieval period, becoming associated not only with the tree but also with the qualities of wisdom and protection, as hazel trees were often linked to divination and magic in various cultures.

Historically, the name Hazel gained prominence in the English-speaking world during the 19th century, particularly in the context of literature and the arts. It appears in notable works such as George Eliot's novel "Middlemarch" published in 1871, where the character of Hazel is depicted with depth and complexity. The name also has biblical connections, as the hazel tree is mentioned in various texts, symbolizing fertility and prosperity, which contributed to its cultural resonance.

In addition to its literary significance, Hazel has been associated with various traditions and folklore. In Celtic mythology, the hazel tree is revered as a source of wisdom and inspiration, often linked to the stories of the Salmon of Knowledge. This connection to wisdom further solidified the name's symbolic meaning over the centuries. The name has also been used in various diminutive forms, such as Haze, which reflect its enduring appeal. Overall, the name Hazel carries a rich tapestry of linguistic roots and cultural significance, rooted in nature and tradition.

Trend Summary

The name Hazel has seen a resurgence in popularity in the United States, particularly in the 21st century.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Haze
  • Hazelina

International Variants

  • Hazelle (French)
  • Hazel (Dutch)

Famous people named Hazel

Hazel Scott is a pianist and actress best known for Rhapsody in Blue, The Heat's On, and her performances on The Ed Sullivan Show.

Hazel Mae is a television personality best known for her work as a sports anchor on NESN and as a host on various sports programs.

Fictional characters named Hazel

Hazel Grace Lancaster is a fictional character from the novel and film The Fault in Our Stars. She is a teenager battling cancer who navigates love and loss while attending a support group.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Hazel was first seen in the United States in 1880. Hazel has ranked as high as #55 nationally, which occurred in 1918, and has been most popular in North Carolina, California, Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Ohio. In the past 5 years the name Hazel has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Hazel (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 621
10%
TX 546
9%
OH 269
4%
FL 268
4%
NC 217
4%
PA 215
4%
TN 214
3%
NY 206
3%
GA 199
3%
WA 194
3%
IL 194
3%
IN 175
3%
MO 174
3%
MN 161
3%
CO 159
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188021
188150
188273
1883123
1884209
1885281
1886429
1887504
1888898
18891,056
18901,366
18911,447
18921,897
18932,052
18942,103
18952,252
18962,226
18972,339
18982,439
18992,033
19002,425
19012,097
19022,238
19032,139
19042,301
19052,351
19062,315
19072,530
19082,698
19092,708
19103,032
19113,290
19124,197
19134,589
19145,324
19157,092
19167,214
19177,285
19187,615
19197,430
19207,308
19217,341
19226,757
19236,246
19246,342
19255,778
19265,303
19275,096
19284,649
19294,164
19303,888
19313,507
19323,340
19333,030
19342,811
19352,695
19362,511
19372,347
19382,337
19392,101
19402,068
19411,981
19421,911
19431,852
19441,659
19451,439
19461,521
19471,558
19481,348
19491,320
19501,182
19511,148
19521,058
19531,041
19541,036
1955910
1956771
1957746
1958658
1959585
1960577
1961514
1962447
1963420
1964363
1965343
1966301
1967256
1968241
1969212
1970235
1971188
1972169
1973141
1974136
1975134
1976115
1977127
1978132
1979112
1980132
1981131
1982120
198390
1984116
1985119
1986121
1987141
1988111
1989154
1990145
1991127
1992143
1993147
1994146
1995162
1996171
1997192
1998219
1999231
2000246
2001319
2002314
2003385
2004404
2005578
2006682
2007909
2008967
20091,126
20101,240
20111,481
20121,785
20132,056
20142,909
20154,302
20164,681
20175,046
20184,951
20195,462
20205,513
20216,011
20226,157
20236,181
20246,401