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Laurie Girl

Popularity: #898 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationLAW-ree / /ˈlɔːri/

Latin; French

Meaning

Latin: laurel; French: from Laurentum

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Laurie is derived from the Latin name Laurentius, which means "from Laurentum," a city in ancient Italy. The root of Laurentius is the Latin word "laurus," meaning "laurel," a symbol of victory and honor in classical antiquity. This name evolved through various linguistic forms, transitioning from Latin to Old French as "Laurent," and subsequently to Middle English as "Laurie" or "Laury," before settling into its modern form in English. The use of Laurie as a feminine name is often associated with the diminutive of Laura, which also derives from the same Latin root, emphasizing the connection to the laurel tree and its connotations of triumph and achievement.

Historically, the name has been borne by notable figures, including Saint Laurence, a Christian martyr who was executed in the 3rd century. His feast day is celebrated on August 10, and he is often depicted with a gridiron, symbolizing his martyrdom. The name gained further prominence through literary works and translations, such as the King James Bible, which contributed to the spread of biblical names in English-speaking cultures. The name Laurie, while primarily used in the 20th century as a feminine form, has roots that trace back to these significant historical and religious contexts.

Culturally, the laurel wreath has been a symbol of accomplishment since ancient Rome, where it was awarded to victors in athletic competitions and military commanders. This association with success and honor has allowed the name Laurie to resonate through the ages, embodying a sense of achievement and recognition. The name's enduring appeal can be attributed to its rich historical significance and the positive connotations associated with the laurel, making it a name that carries both beauty and strength.

Trend Summary

Laurie has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, peaking in the mid-20th century.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Laura
  • Laurie

International Variants

  • Lola (Spanish)
  • Lorenza (Italian)
  • Laure (French)

Famous people named Laurie

Laurie Anderson is a performance artist and musician best known for O Superman, United States, and Strange Angels.

Laurie Metcalf is an actress best known for Roseanne, The Conners, and Toy Story.

Laurie Halse Anderson is an author best known for Speak, Wintergirls, and Chains.

Laurie Lee is an author and poet best known for Cider with Rosie, As I Walked Out One Midsummer Morning, and A Rose for Winter.

Laurie Strode is a fictional character best known for her role in the Halloween film series.

Fictional characters named Laurie

Laurie Strode is a fictional character from the film series Halloween. She is a survivor of Michael Myers' attacks and often serves as the primary protagonist in the franchise.

Laurie Lee is a fictional character from the novel Cider with Rosie. She is the narrator's mother and plays a significant role in the depiction of rural life in early 20th century England.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Laurie was first seen in the United States in 1882. Laurie has ranked as high as #78 nationally, which occurred in 1962, and has been most popular in New York, California, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Laurie has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Laurie (2024)

StateBirthsShare
FL 5
50%
PA 5
50%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18825
18848
18855
18867
18879
18888
18898
189112
18928
18937
18945
189512
189612
18977
18985
18998
190013
19016
19029
19037
19045
19056
190611
190712
190817
190911
191018
191114
191213
191322
191428
191538
191641
191743
191847
191932
192049
192144
192245
192346
192434
192536
192641
192756
192848
192950
193065
193144
193252
193341
193471
193568
193675
193782
193899
1939137
1940135
1941178
1942232
1943258
1944361
1945592
1946769
1947789
1948805
19491,104
19501,391
19512,353
19523,271
19533,686
19544,290
19554,954
19566,206
19576,543
19586,734
19597,534
196010,144
196110,433
196210,674
19639,275
19647,833
19656,533
19665,667
19674,923
19684,340
19694,627
19704,392
19713,750
19723,228
19732,897
19742,555
19752,284
19762,038
19771,766
19781,613
19791,581
19801,336
19811,224
19821,185
1983952
1984817
1985779
1986591
1987519
1988476
1989448
1990345
1991314
1992269
1993200
1994196
1995166
1996135
1997146
1998137
1999118
200099
200198
200288
200389
200476
200597
200691
200769
200880
200957
201062
201149
201241
201368
201456
201571
201648
201755
201856
201949
202044
202151
202251
202338
202452