Loretta Boy
Origin(s)
Pronunciationluh-RET-uh / ləˈrɛtəItalian; Latin
Meaning
Italian: laurel; Latin: the laurel tree
Historical & Cultural Background
Loretta is derived from the Italian name 'Lauretta', which is a diminutive of 'Laura', meaning 'laurel'. The laurel tree has been a symbol of victory and honor since ancient times. The name gained popularity in the 19th century, particularly in English-speaking countries. It is often associated with the song 'Loretta' by the American singer-songwriter Johnny Cash.
Trend Summary
Loretta has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, with a notable decline since the mid-20th century.
Similar Names
Variants
- Loretta
- Lauretta
International Variants
- Laurette (French)
- Loreta (Lithuanian)
Famous people named Loretta
Loretta Lynn was an American country music singer-songwriter known for her hits like 'Coal Miner's Daughter'.
Loretta Devine is an American actress and singer recognized for her roles in television series such as 'Grey's Anatomy'.
Loretta Swit is an American actress best known for her portrayal of Major Margaret 'Hot Lips' Houlihan on the television series 'M*A*S*H'.
Loretta Goggi is an Italian singer, actress, and television presenter, celebrated for her contributions to Italian pop music.
Fictional characters named Loretta
Loretta Castorini is a character in the film 'Moonstruck', known for her romantic entanglements.
Loretta is a character in the animated series 'The Simpsons', known for her role as a supporting character in various episodes.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Loretta was first seen in the United States in 1911. Loretta has ranked as high as #841 nationally, which occurred in 1933, and has been most popular in New York. In the past 5 years the name Loretta has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Loretta (1929)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| NY | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1911 | 7 |
| 1912 | 6 |
| 1914 | 6 |
| 1915 | 5 |
| 1916 | 7 |
| 1919 | 6 |
| 1921 | 5 |
| 1922 | 6 |
| 1924 | 8 |
| 1925 | 9 |
| 1926 | 6 |
| 1927 | 5 |
| 1928 | 10 |
| 1929 | 13 |
| 1930 | 13 |
| 1931 | 9 |
| 1932 | 10 |
| 1933 | 21 |
| 1934 | 14 |
| 1935 | 14 |
| 1936 | 17 |
| 1937 | 13 |
| 1938 | 18 |
| 1939 | 16 |
| 1940 | 11 |
| 1941 | 15 |
| 1942 | 11 |
| 1943 | 5 |
| 1944 | 9 |
| 1945 | 8 |
| 1946 | 10 |
| 1947 | 8 |
| 1948 | 6 |
| 1950 | 7 |
| 1951 | 8 |
| 1952 | 6 |
| 1954 | 7 |
| 1955 | 11 |
| 1956 | 9 |
| 1957 | 9 |
| 1958 | 7 |
| 1959 | 16 |
| 1960 | 13 |
| 1961 | 7 |
| 1962 | 11 |
| 1963 | 5 |
| 1964 | 8 |
| 1965 | 5 |
| 1966 | 11 |
| 1967 | 5 |
| 1968 | 8 |
| 1969 | 7 |
| 1970 | 5 |
| 1971 | 5 |
| 1981 | 5 |