What does Lars mean and where does it come from?
Lars is of Scandinavian origin and is derived from the Latin name Laurentius, meaning 'from Laurentum.' It has been widely used in Scandinavian countries, particularly Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. It became popular in the Middle Ages and has remained a common name in these regions. Notable people wi
Cultural significance
Lars has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Denmark-speaking communities, where it reflects values of latin.
Peak popularity
Reached #737 in 1961 — currently #2163 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Denmark-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Lars?
Lars works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Lars Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Lars Rose
Floral · soft ending
Lars Claire
French influence · crisp
Lars Jane
Literary · strong
Lars Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Lars right now?
Falling — down 409 spots — currently #2163 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #2163 | 67 | ▼ down 409 · -29% births |
| 2022 | #1754 | 95 | ▲ up 587 · +61% births |
| 2021 | #2341 | 59 | ▼ down 540 · -28% births |
| 2020 | #1801 | 82 | ▼ down 98 · -10% births |
| 2015 | #1703 | 91 | ▲ up 22 · +3% births |
| 2010 | #1725 | 88 | ▼ down 416 · -24% births |
| 2005 | #1309 | 116 | ▼ down 200 · -9% births |
| 2000 | #1109 | 127 | ▲ up 104 · +40% births |
| 1995 | #1213 | 91 | ▼ down 24 · +8% births |
| 1990 | #1189 | 84 | ▼ down 79 · +20% births |
| 1985 | #1110 | 70 | ▼ down 208 · -29% births |
| 1980 | #902 | 99 | ▲ up 42 · +32% births |
| 1975 | #944 | 75 | ▼ down 145 · -28% births |
| 1970 | #799 | 104 | ▲ up 13 · +25% births |
| 1965 | #812 | 83 | — |
The story of Lars
Lars has been a beloved American name for over 141 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1883. With 6,652 total births recorded, Lars remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #1725 in 1915, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #2163 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Lars in 1961:
Lars by decade
Lars peaked in the 1960s. See all 1960s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 22 | |
| 1890s | 5 | |
| 1900s | 8 | |
| 1910s | 99 | |
| 1920s | 139 | |
| 1930s | 153 | |
| 1940s | 215 | |
| 1950s | 496 | |
| 1960s | 876 | |
| 1970s | 824 | |
| 1980s | 815 | |
| 1990s | 918 | |
| 2000s ★ | 1,133 | |
| 2010s | 867 | |
| 2020s | 82 | |
💎With 6,652 total births, Lars is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Lars?
ENGLISH
LarrieLarryLaurieLawrieLazLorenLorinLorrin
What names sound and feel like Lars?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Lars also consider these
How is Lars written in other languages?
What are the girl versions of Lars?
Common questions about the name Lars
What does the name Lars mean?
Lars means "Latin" — a name rooted in Denmark 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 Lars?
Lars is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Lars?
Lars originates from Denmark tradition. Denmark 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 Lars?
Lars is a one-syllable name pronounced L AA1 R Z. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Lars sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Lars flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Lars ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.