What does Hazel mean and where does it come from?
The name Hazel derives from the Old English 'hæsel', referring to the hazel tree, which symbolizes protection and reconciliation. It gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and is often associated with the lush, green nature of the hazel shrub or tree. The name has experienced a
Cultural significance
Hazel has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of the hazel tree.
Peak popularity
Reached #18 in 1897 — currently #18 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Hazel?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Hazel?
Hazel works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Hazel Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Hazel Rose
Floral · soft ending
Hazel Mae
Sweet · timeless
Hazel Claire
French influence · crisp
Hazel Jane
Literary · strong
Hazel Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Hazel right now?
Rising — up 9 spots — currently #18 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #18 | 6,181 | ▲ up 9 |
| 2022 | #27 | 6,157 | ▲ up 1 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #28 | 6,011 | ▲ up 3 · +10% births |
| 2020 | #31 | 5,457 | ▲ up 32 · +27% births |
| 2015 | #63 | 4,297 | ▲ up 201 · +247% births |
| 2010 | #264 | 1,239 | ▲ up 250 · +115% births |
| 2005 | #514 | 577 | ▲ up 379 · +135% births |
| 2000 | #893 | 246 | ▲ up 204 · +52% births |
| 1995 | #1097 | 162 | ▲ up 83 · +12% births |
| 1990 | #1180 | 145 | ▲ up 4 · +22% births |
| 1985 | #1184 | 119 | ▼ down 108 · -9% births |
| 1980 | #1076 | 131 | ▼ down 133 · -2% births |
| 1975 | #943 | 134 | ▼ down 265 · -43% births |
| 1970 | #678 | 234 | ▼ down 163 · -32% births |
| 1965 | #515 | 343 | — |
The story of Hazel
Hazel has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #18 in 1897. More than 274,008 babies have been named Hazel since 1880. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #356 in 1880 to #18 in 2023. Hazel is used for both genders: 99% female and 1% male.
Names that peaked alongside Hazel in 1897:
Hazel by decade
Hazel peaked in the 1890s. See all 1890s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 3,676 | |
| 1890s | 20,273 | |
| 1900s | 23,991 | |
| 1910s | 57,629 | |
| 1920s ★ | 59,627 | |
| 1930s | 29,033 | |
| 1940s | 16,958 | |
| 1950s | 9,282 | |
| 1960s | 3,751 | |
| 1970s | 1,512 | |
| 1980s | 1,239 | |
| 1990s | 1,694 | |
| 2000s | 5,966 | |
| 2010s | 33,901 | |
| 2020s | 5,476 | |
What are good nicknames for Hazel?
What names sound and feel like Hazel?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Hazel also consider these
Common questions about the name Hazel
What does the name Hazel mean?
Hazel means "The hazel tree" — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Hazel?
Hazel is currently ranked #18 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Hazel?
Hazel originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Hazel?
Hazel is a two-syllable name pronounced HH AE1 Z AH0 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Hazel more of a girl or boy name?
Hazel is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.