Hazel is a unique and charming name of English origin, derived from the hazel tree, which is known for its nuts and distinctive catkins. The name Hazel was traditionally given to children born beneath the hazel tree or during the month of June when the trees are in full bloom.
The meaning behind the name Hazel is deeply rooted in nature and carries a sense of earthiness and warmth. It is often associated with words like "hazelnut" and "hazelwood," which evoke images of woodland scenes, autumnal colors, and the cosy feeling of being surrounded by nature.
Historically, the hazel tree has played an important role in various cultures throughout history. In Norse mythology, it was believed that the gods gathered around a giant hazel tree called Yggdrasil to hold council. Celtic druids also held hazelnuts in high regard and used them as symbols of wisdom and inspiration.
While Hazel may not be one of the most popular names today, it has been featured in various forms of literature and media throughout history. In Charles Dickens' novel "David Copperfield," for instance, there is a character named Miss Havisham who has a young ward named Estella, whose nickname is "Hazle." Additionally, Hazel was also the name of one of the main characters in the popular children's book series "Hazel Green."
In conclusion, Hazel is a beautiful and distinctive name with deep roots in nature and history. It is a fitting choice for parents looking for an unusual yet meaningful name for their child.
The name Hazle has been given to a total of 2,441 babies born in the United States between 1887 and 2022. During this period, the number of births with this name varied significantly from year to year.
From 1887 to 1936, Hazle was a relatively popular name, with an average of about 45 births per year during this time. However, in 1937, there was a significant decrease in the number of babies named Hazle, with only 24 births recorded that year. This trend continued throughout the following decades, as the popularity of the name Hazle declined.
During the 1960s and 1970s, fewer than five babies were given the name Hazle each year. This low level of popularity persisted until the early 2000s, with only a handful of births recorded annually between 1984 and 2008.
However, since 2009, there has been a resurgence in the use of the name Hazle. In recent years, an average of about six babies have been named Hazle each year, indicating that this name may be experiencing renewed popularity among parents in the United States.