Laura is a lovely girl’s name that is particularly common in England and English-speaking countries. Laura, a name that evokes images of flourishing laurels and quiet grace, boasts a rich history and enduring popularity. Let’s delve into the origin, meaning,
Laura’s origins trace back to the Latin word “laurus,” meaning “bay laurel.” This evergreen plant was woven into wreaths and used in ancient Greece and Rome to crown victors in athletic competitions and celebrate poets and scholars. By extension, Laura carries a beautiful association with triumph, achievement, and intellectual prowess.
Meaning of the name Laura
The meaning of Laura is a Latin name that means “Bay Laurel”. The meaning of Laura was so influential it became quite popular in North America for many female newborn babies until the 19th century.
Popularity
Laura has consistently held a place as a popular name in the UK. According to the latest data available from the ONS (https://www.ons.gov.uk/), Laura didn’t claim the top spot in 2021, but it has enjoyed a strong presence for many years. This data suggests that Laura remains a well-loved and enduring choice for parents in the UK.
Laura was not in the top 100 girl’s names in England in 2022. However here are a few facts about the popularity of the name in the USA:
The name Laura was one of the top 40 names until it dropped to the 43rd spot in 1899. In the 19th century, Laura landed in the 19th spot, with the name Louis in 1881 and 1883. However, in the 20th century, the name Laura became one of the top 50 names for many newborn females. In 1930, Laura rose to the 20th spot, and in 1984, the name started to slowly lose its popularity. Both in England and the United States Laura is not as popular a girl’s name as it used to be.
Laura transcends cultural boundaries. Variations of the name appear worldwide, including Laurine (French), Laura (Italian), and Laura (Spanish). This global presence underscores the name’s inherent versatility and enduring appeal across languages and cultures.
Famous People with the First-name Laura
Saint Laura, a 9th-century Spanish martyr, is associated with the name. Her unwavering faith and courage in the face of persecution further solidify Laura’s connection to strength and perseverance.
During the years, there have been many famous people that were named Laura. These famous people who shared this name included everyone from Laura Ashley (the fashion designer), Laura Carmichael (an English actress), Laura Robson (the British number 1 tennis player), and Laura Bush (an American 1st lady).
Why Choose the Name?
Beyond its victorious origins, Laura evokes a sense of strength and grace. The connection to the bay laurel suggests resilience and the ability to thrive even in challenging conditions. Laura also carries a sense of elegance and refinement, making it a fitting choice for someone who is both determined and poised.
Useful Resources
- Our comprehensive list of English girl’s names.
- See what are the most popular English girl’s names at the moment.
