What does Lola mean and where does it come from?
Lola is a diminutive of the name Dolores in Spanish, which translates to 'sorrows' due to its association with the Virgin Mary, titled 'Nuestra Señora de los Dolores'. It is also used in the Philippines to refer to a grandmother, derived from the Spanish influence on Filipino culture. This name has
Cultural significance
Lola has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Spain-speaking communities, where it reflects values of sorrows.
Peak popularity
Reached #99 in 1904 — currently #275 in the US.
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Related Reading
Spain-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Lola?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Lola?
Lola works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Lola Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Lola Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Lola Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Lola Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Lola Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
Lola Brynn
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Lola right now?
Holding steady — currently #275 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #275 | 1,132 | ▼ down 3 · -2% births |
| 2024 | #272 | 1,161 | ▼ down 11 · -3% births |
| 2023 | #261 | 1,191 | stable · -1% births |
| 2022 | #261 | 1,202 | ▼ down 1 · +1% births |
| 2021 | #260 | 1,192 | ▼ down 20 · -4% births |
| 2020 | #240 | 1,248 | ▼ down 16 · -14% births |
| 2015 | #224 | 1,454 | ▼ down 13 · -1% births |
| 2010 | #211 | 1,475 | ▲ up 161 · +75% births |
| 2005 | #372 | 843 | ▲ up 938 · +481% births |
| 2000 | #1310 | 145 | ▲ up 1377 · +222% births |
| 1995 | #2687 | 45 | ▼ down 734 · -36% births |
| 1990 | #1953 | 70 | ▼ down 263 · +3% births |
| 1985 | #1690 | 68 | ▼ down 709 · -55% births |
| 1980 | #981 | 151 | ▼ down 105 · -1% births |
| 1975 | #876 | 152 | — |
The story of Lola
Lola has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #99 in 1904. A total of 91,216 babies have received this name. Lola is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Lola in 1904:
Lola by decade
Lola peaked in the 1900s. See all 1900s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 2,054 | |
| 1890s | 4,232 | |
| 1900s | 5,964 | |
| 1910s | 11,814 | |
| 1920s ★ | 14,746 | |
| 1930s | 10,454 | |
| 1940s | 7,662 | |
| 1950s | 5,541 | |
| 1960s | 2,865 | |
| 1970s | 1,590 | |
| 1980s | 854 | |
| 1990s | 526 | |
| 2000s | 7,813 | |
| 2010s | 13,853 | |
| 2020s | 3,541 | |
What are good nicknames for Lola?
What names sound and feel like Lola?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Lola also consider these
How is Lola written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Lola
What does the name Lola mean?
Lola means "sorrows" — a name rooted in Spain 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 Lola?
Lola is currently ranked #261 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 Lola?
Lola originates from Spain tradition. Spain 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 Lola?
Lola is a two-syllable name pronounced LOH-luh. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Lola more of a girl or boy name?
Lola is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.