Back to Search

Laurel

Laurel is derived from the Latin 'laurus', meaning 'laurel tree' or 'bay tree'. Traditionally associated with victory and honor in ancient Roman and Greek cultures, laurel wreaths were awarded to victors and used in various ceremonies. The name thus carries connotations of triumph and distinction.

IPA: /ˈlɔːrəl/ · Simplified: LOR-el

Unisex
Latin
Ancient Roman and Greek
Europe
Elegant
Classic
Nature-inspired
Timeless

43/100

Popularity

Stable

10-Year Trend

5

Countries

2020

Peak Year

Meaning of Laurel

Etymology, origin story, and cultural significance.

Laurel is derived from the Latin 'laurus', meaning 'laurel tree' or 'bay tree'. Traditionally associated with victory and honor in ancient Roman and Greek cultures, laurel wreaths were awarded to victors and used in various ceremonies. The name thus carries connotations of triumph and distinction.

Does Laurel flow with your last name? — Run the surname compatibility check

How to pronounce Laurel

IPA notation and a simplified pronunciation guide.

IPA: /ˈlɔːrəl/ · Simplified: LOR-el

Nicknames for Laurel

Common diminutives and short forms used in everyday life.

Laurie
Laure
Lala
Rell

Laurel name popularity

Popularity score over the last 10 years and countries where this name is popular.

20152016201720182019202020212022202320240255075100

Popular in Countries

Top countries where this name is most common.

45

United States

42

Canada

39

United Kingdom

37

Australia

35

New Zealand

International Forms

How this name appears across different languages and cultures.

Lorel

Lurline

Laurelle

Laural

Names like Laurel

Names with a similar feel you might also like.

Collections featuring Laurel

Curated name lists where this name appears

Personality

Traits and perception commonly associated with this name.

People named Laurel are often seen as thoughtful and introspective, with a natural inclination towards creativity and artistic pursuits. They are typically viewed as achievers, possessing a calm and gentle demeanor that reassures those around them.

Name Day

Traditional celebration date for this name.

Not traditionally celebrated

Famous people named Laurel

Well-known figures who share this name.

L

Laurel Thatcher Ulrich

Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and author, born 1938

Frequently asked questions about Laurel

Quick answers on meaning, gender, popularity, and nicknames.

What does Laurel mean?
Here is the meaning behind Laurel: Laurel is derived from the Latin 'laurus', meaning 'laurel tree' or 'bay tree'. Traditionally associated with victory and honor in ancient Roman and Greek cultures, laurel wreaths were awarded to victors and used in various ceremonies. The name thus carries connotations of triumph and distinction.
Is Laurel a boy or girl name?
Laurel is a unisex name — it is given to both boys and girls.
How popular is Laurel?
Laurel scores 43/100 on Namelia's popularity index, with a peak around 2020.
What are good nicknames for Laurel?
Popular nicknames for Laurel: Laurie, Laure, Lala, Rell.
What names are similar to Laurel?
Names similar to Laurel: Lauren, Laura, Lorelei, Lola — close in sound, origin, or style.

Namelia

AI-powered baby name generator. Find a meaningful name that fits your culture, language, and family.


© 2026 Namelia. All rights reserved.