What does Laurel mean and where does it come from?
Laurel derives from the Latin word 'laurus', referring to the laurel tree, which symbolizes victory and achievement, historically awarded to victors in ancient Greece. The name has a classic feel and first saw popularity in the English-speaking world in the late 19th century. Notable people with thi
Cultural significance
Laurel has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of latin.
Peak popularity
Reached #241 in 1956 — currently #715 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Laurel?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Laurel?
Laurel works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Laurel Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Laurel Rose
Floral · soft ending
Laurel Mae
Sweet · timeless
Laurel Claire
French influence · crisp
Laurel Jane
Literary · strong
Laurel Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Laurel right now?
Holding steady — currently #715 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #715 | 394 | ▼ down 5 · -5% births |
| 2022 | #710 | 415 | ▼ down 73 · -11% births |
| 2021 | #637 | 465 | ▲ up 43 · +13% births |
| 2020 | #680 | 413 | ▲ up 87 · +12% births |
| 2015 | #767 | 368 | ▲ up 301 · +59% births |
| 2010 | #1068 | 232 | ▼ down 286 · -30% births |
| 2005 | #782 | 332 | ▼ down 220 · -28% births |
| 2000 | #562 | 463 | ▲ up 6 · +14% births |
| 1995 | #568 | 407 | ▼ down 36 · -9% births |
| 1990 | #532 | 447 | ▼ down 130 · -20% births |
| 1985 | #402 | 561 | ▲ up 47 · +18% births |
| 1980 | #449 | 477 | ▲ up 99 · +52% births |
| 1975 | #548 | 313 | ▼ down 166 · -50% births |
| 1970 | #382 | 622 | ▲ up 23 · +19% births |
| 1965 | #405 | 524 | — |
The story of Laurel
Laurel has been a beloved American name for over 141 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1883. A total of 46,913 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1122 in 1885 to #715 in 2023. Laurel is used for both genders: 96% female and 4% male.
Names that peaked alongside Laurel in 1956:
Laurel by decade
Laurel peaked in the 1950s. See all 1950s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 52 | |
| 1890s | 114 | |
| 1900s | 142 | |
| 1910s | 652 | |
| 1920s | 1,958 | |
| 1930s | 1,875 | |
| 1940s | 5,145 | |
| 1950s ★ | 9,602 | |
| 1960s | 6,467 | |
| 1970s | 4,109 | |
| 1980s | 4,957 | |
| 1990s | 4,378 | |
| 2000s | 3,445 | |
| 2010s | 3,604 | |
| 2020s | 413 | |
What are good nicknames for Laurel?
Common
LauLaurLaurieLauryUrel
What names sound and feel like Laurel?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Laurel also consider these
How is Laurel written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Laurel
What does the name Laurel mean?
Laurel means "Latin" — 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 Laurel?
Laurel is currently ranked #715 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 Laurel?
Laurel 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 Laurel?
Laurel is a two-syllable name pronounced L AO1 R AH0 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Laurel more of a girl or boy name?
Laurel is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.