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Laurel Unisex

Popularity: #583 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

PronunciationLOR-uhl / /ˈlɔːr.əl/

Latin; English

Meaning

Latin: laurel tree; English: victory

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Laurel derives from the Latin word "laurus," meaning "bay tree" or "laurel tree." This term is rooted in the ancient Greek word "daphnē," which also refers to the laurel tree, known for its aromatic leaves. The laurel tree has been historically significant, symbolizing victory, honor, and achievement in various cultures. The name entered the English language through the Old French "laurier" during the Middle Ages, reflecting the cultural exchange and linguistic evolution of the time.

Historically, the laurel wreath was awarded to victors in ancient Greece, particularly in the Olympic Games, and was associated with the god Apollo, who was often depicted with a laurel crown. This connection to triumph and divine favor contributed to the name's enduring significance. In Christian tradition, the laurel tree also symbolizes resurrection and eternal life, further embedding the name within cultural and religious contexts. The name Laurel has been used in literature and poetry, often evoking themes of nature and beauty, as seen in works from the Renaissance onward.

The name has also been associated with various notable figures throughout history, including saints and literary characters, which have helped to maintain its presence in cultural memory. In the 19th century, the name Laurel appeared more frequently in literary works, reinforcing its connection to nature and virtue. The diminutive form "Laurie" emerged as a familiar variant, reflecting the name's adaptability and affection in personal contexts. Overall, Laurel embodies a rich tapestry of linguistic roots and cultural significance, symbolizing honor and beauty across different eras.

Trend Summary

Laurel has seen a moderate rise in popularity in the United States over the past few decades.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Loralee
  • Lorelai

International Variants

  • Laura (Latin); Laure (French); Lora (Slavic)

Famous people named Laurel

Laurel and Hardy is a comedy duo best known for their films such as Way Out West, Sons of the Desert, and The Music Box.

Laurel Clark was a NASA astronaut best known for her mission on STS-107, the final flight of Space Shuttle Columbia.

Fictional characters named Laurel

Laurel Lance is a fictional character from the TV series Arrow. She is a lawyer and vigilante who becomes a key member of Team Arrow, fighting crime in Star City.

Laurel is a fictional character from the animated series The Magic School Bus. She is a student who often participates in the adventures led by Ms. Frizzle, exploring science in creative ways.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Laurel was first seen in the United States in 1883. Laurel has ranked as high as #441 nationally, which occurred in 1956, and has been most popular in California, New York, Illinois, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. In the past 5 years the name Laurel has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Laurel (2024)

StateBirthsShare
TX 44
14%
PA 32
10%
CA 24
7%
FL 21
7%
TN 20
6%
NY 18
6%
NC 16
5%
OH 14
4%
VA 11
3%
GA 11
3%
AL 11
3%
MN 10
3%
IN 10
3%
SC 9
3%
CO 9
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188312
18846
18855
18867
18876
18896
18907
189110
189211
18939
189416
18955
18966
18979
189814
189911
190010
190115
190210
190416
19058
19067
19078
190816
190918
191012
191117
191223
191330
191433
191541
191637
191755
191865
191953
192068
192163
192289
1923202
1924177
1925135
1926169
1927223
1928165
1929146
1930139
1931127
1932119
1933102
193496
1935102
193680
1937127
1938281
1939352
1940287
1941297
1942294
1943299
1944349
1945530
1946678
1947775
1948687
1949694
1950758
1951851
1952888
1953938
1954879
1955982
19561,181
19571,123
1958965
1959874
1960789
1961757
1962700
1963717
1964544
1965524
1966444
1967506
1968752
1969632
1970622
1971494
1972466
1973416
1974343
1975313
1976330
1977337
1978313
1979431
1980477
1981481
1982507
1983436
1984491
1985561
1986482
1987447
1988493
1989526
1990447
1991432
1992374
1993426
1994488
1995407
1996376
1997474
1998497
1999444
2000463
2001399
2002375
2003404
2004355
2005332
2006316
2007288
2008272
2009241
2010233
2011282
2012262
2013297
2014340
2015369
2016459
2017504
2018484
2019388
2020415
2021465
2022415
2023394
2024386