Laurel

What does Laurel mean?

The name Laurel brings to mind the bay laurel, a fragrant evergreen whose leaves were a classical symbol of victory and honour in ancient Rome and Greece. The word comes from the Latin laurus, the plant whose foliage was woven into crowns for poets, athletes and leaders.

As a given name, Laurel feels gently botanical and quietly dignified. It carries natural imagery rather than overt grandeur, suggesting calm strength, literary sensibility and a slightly vintage charm that still reads as fresh and wearable today. If you like nature names with a touch of classical resonance, Laurel sits comfortably between familiar names like Laura and more distinctive floral choices.

Historical Context

Laurel comes directly from the Latin word laurus, the bay tree that held symbolic importance in the ancient Mediterranean. In classical culture a wreath of laurel leaves signified victory, poetic achievement and honour. That classical symbolism helped the plant's name move into personal naming in English-speaking countries, especially from the 19th century when botanical and nature names became fashionable.

The name saw use in the Victorian and Edwardian eras alongside other plant names and experienced periodic revivals in the 20th century. It has often sat near names such as Laura and Lauren in sound and style, but it retains a more explicitly botanical identity. Internationally, cognates and related forms such as the French Laure and the Latinised Laurus reflect the same root, even as different languages developed their own familiar forms.

Today Laurel is appreciated for being quietly elegant and nature-connected without feeling like a literal descriptor. Its classical roots give it subtle gravitas, while its soft cadence makes it versatile for everyday use.

Popularity of Laurel over time

In 2025, Laurel was given to 372 girls in the US. Laurel has remained fairly steady over the last 20 years, and remains an uncommon girls' name in the US.

What do parents think of Laurel?