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Luz Unisex

Popularity: #593 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

Pronunciationlooz / /luθ/ or /luːz/

Spanish; Portuguese

Meaning

Spanish: light; Portuguese: light

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Luz has its roots in the Hebrew language, deriving from the word "לוז" (luz), which translates to "light" or "radiance." This etymological path continues through the Greek form "Lous," and into Latin as "Luz," before being adopted into various languages, including Spanish and Portuguese, where it retains its original meaning. The name entered the English lexicon primarily through the influence of Spanish and Portuguese cultures, particularly during the periods of exploration and colonization in the Americas, where it became associated with both religious and cultural significance.

Historically, Luz is noted in biblical texts, particularly in the Old Testament, where it refers to a city mentioned in the Book of Genesis. This city is associated with the story of Jacob, who named it Bethel after his dream of a ladder reaching to heaven. The name Luz also appears in various religious contexts, symbolizing divine light and guidance. The significance of light in many cultures has contributed to the name's enduring appeal, as it embodies hope and enlightenment.

Culturally, Luz has been embraced in various traditions, often linked to themes of illumination and purity. In Spanish-speaking countries, it is common for the name to be used in conjunction with other names, such as María Luz, enhancing its spiritual connotation. The name's association with light has made it a popular choice for those seeking a name that conveys positivity and brightness. Additionally, diminutive forms like Luli or Luzia have emerged in some cultures, reflecting familial affection and cultural adaptation. Overall, Luz carries a rich historical and cultural legacy, symbolizing light across various contexts.

Trend Summary

Luz has seen a steady presence in the U.S. but remains relatively uncommon.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Luzia
  • Luza

International Variants

  • Luz (Spanish)
  • Luz (Portuguese)
  • Luzia (Portuguese)

Famous people named Luz

Luz Casal is a singer-songwriter best known for her albums Como la Flor and La Llamada.

Fictional characters named Luz

Luz Noceda is a fictional character from the animated series The Owl House. She is a human girl who discovers a magical realm and aspires to become a witch, challenging the norms of her world.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Luz was first seen in the United States in 1886. Luz has ranked as high as #772 nationally, which occurred in 1999, and has been most popular in California, New York, Texas, Illinois, and New Jersey. In the past 5 years the name Luz has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Luz (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 78
24%
TX 57
17%
NY 19
6%
IL 16
5%
NJ 16
5%
AZ 14
4%
NC 13
4%
FL 13
4%
GA 12
4%
TN 12
4%
PA 11
3%
IN 9
3%
OR 9
3%
MD 9
3%
CO 9
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18865
18878
18885
18915
18925
18938
18956
18966
18975
18985
18997
19007
19018
19029
19038
19047
190512
190613
190716
19088
19097
191019
191117
191226
191333
191426
191531
191629
191731
191836
191942
192054
192151
192260
192347
192468
192560
192659
192785
192895
192975
193065
193140
193248
193341
193433
193546
193623
193732
193832
193931
194042
194131
194230
194351
194452
194543
194657
194770
194884
194976
195088
1951109
1952104
1953153
1954183
1955204
1956231
1957215
1958246
1959249
1960286
1961280
1962284
1963321
1964343
1965307
1966372
1967348
1968421
1969442
1970426
1971402
1972411
1973344
1974375
1975381
1976375
1977364
1978357
1979447
1980422
1981352
1982373
1983350
1984314
1985333
1986322
1987346
1988310
1989338
1990375
1991361
1992360
1993355
1994336
1995329
1996322
1997479
1998510
1999573
2000489
2001517
2002437
2003478
2004467
2005472
2006496
2007497
2008407
2009380
2010374
2011301
2012307
2013288
2014241
2015283
2016264
2017253
2018260
2019297
2020250
2021245
2022287
2023321
2024375