Luz Unisex
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)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 78 | |
TX | 57 | |
NY | 19 | |
IL | 16 | |
NJ | 16 | |
AZ | 14 | |
NC | 13 | |
FL | 13 | |
GA | 12 | |
TN | 12 | |
PA | 11 | |
IN | 9 | |
OR | 9 | |
MD | 9 | |
CO | 9 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1886 | 5 |
1887 | 8 |
1888 | 5 |
1891 | 5 |
1892 | 5 |
1893 | 8 |
1895 | 6 |
1896 | 6 |
1897 | 5 |
1898 | 5 |
1899 | 7 |
1900 | 7 |
1901 | 8 |
1902 | 9 |
1903 | 8 |
1904 | 7 |
1905 | 12 |
1906 | 13 |
1907 | 16 |
1908 | 8 |
1909 | 7 |
1910 | 19 |
1911 | 17 |
1912 | 26 |
1913 | 33 |
1914 | 26 |
1915 | 31 |
1916 | 29 |
1917 | 31 |
1918 | 36 |
1919 | 42 |
1920 | 54 |
1921 | 51 |
1922 | 60 |
1923 | 47 |
1924 | 68 |
1925 | 60 |
1926 | 59 |
1927 | 85 |
1928 | 95 |
1929 | 75 |
1930 | 65 |
1931 | 40 |
1932 | 48 |
1933 | 41 |
1934 | 33 |
1935 | 46 |
1936 | 23 |
1937 | 32 |
1938 | 32 |
1939 | 31 |
1940 | 42 |
1941 | 31 |
1942 | 30 |
1943 | 51 |
1944 | 52 |
1945 | 43 |
1946 | 57 |
1947 | 70 |
1948 | 84 |
1949 | 76 |
1950 | 88 |
1951 | 109 |
1952 | 104 |
1953 | 153 |
1954 | 183 |
1955 | 204 |
1956 | 231 |
1957 | 215 |
1958 | 246 |
1959 | 249 |
1960 | 286 |
1961 | 280 |
1962 | 284 |
1963 | 321 |
1964 | 343 |
1965 | 307 |
1966 | 372 |
1967 | 348 |
1968 | 421 |
1969 | 442 |
1970 | 426 |
1971 | 402 |
1972 | 411 |
1973 | 344 |
1974 | 375 |
1975 | 381 |
1976 | 375 |
1977 | 364 |
1978 | 357 |
1979 | 447 |
1980 | 422 |
1981 | 352 |
1982 | 373 |
1983 | 350 |
1984 | 314 |
1985 | 333 |
1986 | 322 |
1987 | 346 |
1988 | 310 |
1989 | 338 |
1990 | 375 |
1991 | 361 |
1992 | 360 |
1993 | 355 |
1994 | 336 |
1995 | 329 |
1996 | 322 |
1997 | 479 |
1998 | 510 |
1999 | 573 |
2000 | 489 |
2001 | 517 |
2002 | 437 |
2003 | 478 |
2004 | 467 |
2005 | 472 |
2006 | 496 |
2007 | 497 |
2008 | 407 |
2009 | 380 |
2010 | 374 |
2011 | 301 |
2012 | 307 |
2013 | 288 |
2014 | 241 |
2015 | 283 |
2016 | 264 |
2017 | 253 |
2018 | 260 |
2019 | 297 |
2020 | 250 |
2021 | 245 |
2022 | 287 |
2023 | 321 |
2024 | 375 |