What does Laura mean and where does it come from?
The name Laura comes from the Latin word 'laurus', meaning 'laurel', which is a symbol of victory and honor. It saw great usage in the Middle Ages, often associated with the poet Petrarch’s beloved, Laura. It remained a popular name in many cultures, with notable bearers such as the Spanish queen La
Cultural significance
Laura has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Latin-speaking communities, where it reflects values of laurel.
Peak popularity
Reached #10 in 1969 — currently #362 in the US.
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Related Reading
Latin-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Laura?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Laura?
Laura works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Laura Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Laura Rose
Floral · soft ending
Laura Mae
Sweet · timeless
Laura Claire
French influence · crisp
Laura Jane
Literary · strong
Laura Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Laura right now?
Holding steady — currently #362 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #362 | 845 | ▲ up 1 · -3% births |
| 2022 | #363 | 873 | ▲ up 26 · +8% births |
| 2021 | #389 | 805 | ▼ down 32 · -6% births |
| 2020 | #357 | 860 | ▼ down 35 · -15% births |
| 2015 | #322 | 1,008 | ▼ down 48 · -17% births |
| 2010 | #274 | 1,208 | ▼ down 127 · -49% births |
| 2005 | #147 | 2,350 | ▼ down 62 · -37% births |
| 2000 | #85 | 3,734 | ▼ down 29 · -38% births |
| 1995 | #56 | 6,007 | ▼ down 27 · -45% births |
| 1990 | #29 | 10,911 | ▼ down 15 · -32% births |
| 1985 | #14 | 16,002 | ▲ up 7 · +24% births |
| 1980 | #21 | 12,917 | ▼ down 1 · +25% births |
| 1975 | #20 | 10,310 | ▼ down 7 · -37% births |
| 1970 | #13 | 16,493 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 1965 | #18 | 16,213 | — |
The story of Laura
Laura has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. It peaked at #10 in 1969, placing it among the top 10 most popular names. Over 800K babies have been given this name — a true American classic. Once ranked #17 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #362 in 2023. Laura is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Laura in 1969:
Laura by decade
Laura peaked in the 1960s. See all 1960s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 12,833 | |
| 1890s | 16,486 | |
| 1900s | 15,579 | |
| 1910s | 30,647 | |
| 1920s | 36,142 | |
| 1930s | 25,238 | |
| 1940s | 35,175 | |
| 1950s | 95,729 | |
| 1960s ★ | 174,622 | |
| 1970s | 118,664 | |
| 1980s | 135,193 | |
| 1990s | 67,423 | |
| 2000s | 25,017 | |
| 2010s | 10,397 | |
| 2020s | 860 | |
What are good nicknames for Laura?
ENGLISH
LaureenLaureneLauressaLaurieLaurissaLoriLorieLorriLorrie
FRENCH
LauretteLaurineLorette
ITALIAN
LaurettaLorettaLorita
Famous people named Laura
L(
Laura (historical Roman figure)
Laura carried this name during the Roman Empire, giving it the enduring weight of classical civilization.
L(
Laura (Roman senator or statesman)
Laura held this name during the height of Roman civilization, when Latin names spread across Europe.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Laura?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Laura also consider these
How is Laura written in other languages?
What are the boy versions of Laura?
Common questions about the name Laura
What does the name Laura mean?
Laura means "laurel" — a name rooted in Latin 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 Laura?
Laura is currently ranked #362 in the United States as a baby 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 Laura?
Laura originates from Latin tradition. Latin 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 Laura?
Laura is a two-syllable name pronounced L AO1 R AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Laura more of a girl or boy name?
Laura is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.