Laura Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationLAWR-uh / ˈlɔːrəLatin; Italian
Meaning
Latin: laurel; Italian: crowned with laurel
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Laura has roots in Latin, where it is derived from 'laurus,' meaning 'laurel.' In ancient Rome, laurel wreaths were symbols of victory and honor. The name became popular in medieval Europe, particularly in Italy, due to the influence of poets like Petrarch, who idealized a woman named Laura. It has been used for both genders, though it is predominantly recognized as a feminine name.
Trend Summary
The name Laura has seen a decline in popularity in the United States since the 1980s.
Similar Names
Variants
- Lora
- Lauri
- Laurie
International Variants
- Laura (Spanish)
- Lara (Russian)
- Lorenza (Italian)
Famous people named Laura
Laura Ingalls Wilder was an American author known for her 'Little House' series of children's books.
Laura Bush served as the First Lady of the United States from 2001 to 2009.
Laura Linney is an acclaimed American actress known for her roles in film and television.
Laura Pausini is an Italian singer-songwriter who has won multiple Grammy Awards.
Fictional characters named Laura
Laura Palmer is a central character in the television series 'Twin Peaks,' whose mysterious death drives the plot.
Laura Croft is the protagonist of the 'Tomb Raider' video game series, known for her adventurous spirit.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Laura was first seen in the United States in 1882. Laura has ranked as high as #1055 nationally, which occurred in 1971, and has been most popular in California, New York, Illinois, District of Columbia, and Texas. In the past 5 years the name Laura has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Laura (2004)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| KY | 8 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1882 | 5 |
| 1886 | 5 |
| 1887 | 6 |
| 1888 | 11 |
| 1890 | 9 |
| 1891 | 6 |
| 1892 | 5 |
| 1893 | 7 |
| 1895 | 5 |
| 1897 | 7 |
| 1898 | 14 |
| 1900 | 7 |
| 1902 | 6 |
| 1904 | 5 |
| 1905 | 8 |
| 1906 | 7 |
| 1907 | 6 |
| 1908 | 7 |
| 1910 | 6 |
| 1911 | 7 |
| 1912 | 9 |
| 1913 | 7 |
| 1914 | 10 |
| 1915 | 5 |
| 1916 | 9 |
| 1917 | 15 |
| 1918 | 13 |
| 1919 | 16 |
| 1920 | 8 |
| 1921 | 19 |
| 1922 | 20 |
| 1923 | 13 |
| 1924 | 15 |
| 1925 | 12 |
| 1926 | 20 |
| 1927 | 19 |
| 1928 | 13 |
| 1929 | 11 |
| 1930 | 15 |
| 1931 | 14 |
| 1932 | 24 |
| 1933 | 11 |
| 1934 | 11 |
| 1935 | 20 |
| 1936 | 14 |
| 1937 | 19 |
| 1938 | 8 |
| 1939 | 11 |
| 1940 | 13 |
| 1941 | 11 |
| 1942 | 12 |
| 1943 | 12 |
| 1944 | 7 |
| 1945 | 6 |
| 1946 | 17 |
| 1947 | 12 |
| 1948 | 15 |
| 1950 | 21 |
| 1951 | 13 |
| 1952 | 18 |
| 1953 | 22 |
| 1954 | 23 |
| 1955 | 18 |
| 1956 | 21 |
| 1957 | 25 |
| 1958 | 23 |
| 1959 | 33 |
| 1960 | 33 |
| 1961 | 34 |
| 1962 | 42 |
| 1963 | 66 |
| 1964 | 41 |
| 1965 | 47 |
| 1966 | 33 |
| 1967 | 41 |
| 1968 | 57 |
| 1969 | 55 |
| 1970 | 53 |
| 1971 | 67 |
| 1972 | 41 |
| 1973 | 44 |
| 1974 | 42 |
| 1975 | 31 |
| 1976 | 46 |
| 1977 | 35 |
| 1978 | 37 |
| 1979 | 58 |
| 1980 | 55 |
| 1981 | 55 |
| 1982 | 63 |
| 1983 | 60 |
| 1984 | 63 |
| 1985 | 66 |
| 1986 | 57 |
| 1987 | 56 |
| 1988 | 58 |
| 1989 | 66 |
| 1990 | 44 |
| 1991 | 31 |
| 1992 | 26 |
| 1993 | 24 |
| 1994 | 28 |
| 1995 | 12 |
| 1996 | 12 |
| 1997 | 7 |
| 1999 | 8 |
| 2000 | 10 |
| 2001 | 9 |
| 2004 | 13 |
| 2005 | 6 |
| 2011 | 5 |