Delores is a unique and distinctive given name of Spanish origin. It is derived from the Spanish word "dolor," which means "pain" or "suffering." Despite its somber meaning, Delores has been popular throughout history as a name given to girls.
The name Delores was first used in Spain during the Middle Ages and quickly spread throughout Latin America and other Spanish-speaking regions. It gained prominence during the 19th century when it was often chosen by parents who wanted to give their daughters a traditional, yet memorable name with a strong religious connection.
In English-speaking countries, Delores began to gain popularity in the early 20th century. Although its usage has declined somewhat since then, it remains a beloved and timeless choice for many families. Today, Delores is still considered an elegant and sophisticated name that carries a rich historical legacy with it.
Some famous individuals named Delores include American actress Delores Hart, known for her roles in films such as "Where the Boys Are" and "Come Back to Me," and Mexican singer-songwriter Delores "Lolita" Tígrida, who gained fame in the 1980s and 1990s with her unique blend of pop, rock, and Latin music. These notable figures have helped perpetuate the popularity of this distinctive name over generations.
Overall, Delores is a beautiful and meaningful name with deep roots in Spanish culture and history. Its powerful yet elegant sound makes it an attractive choice for parents seeking a name that combines tradition with uniqueness.
The name Delores has been a part of the American naming landscape since at least 1890, with a total of 6 births recorded that year. Over the next century and beyond, the popularity of the name has waxed and waned in an intriguing pattern.
In the early years of the 20th century, Delores was on the rise, going from 7 births in 1892 to a peak of 486 births in 1919. This trend continued into the roaring twenties, with the number of Delores births reaching an all-time high of 2810 in 1928.
However, much like the stock market crash that followed the roaring twenties, the popularity of the name Delores took a significant downturn after this peak. By 1930, the number of Delores births had dropped to 4098, and it continued to decline throughout the decade, reaching 2458 in 1950.
This downward trend persisted until the late sixties and early seventies, when the name reached a low point of just 339 births in 1971. However, Delores began to make a comeback after this low point, slowly but steadily increasing in popularity over the next several decades.
By the year 2000, the number of Delores births had risen to 37, and it continued to fluctuate around this level for the next twenty years or so. However, there was another notable spike in popularity between 2016 and 2019, with the number of Delores births rising from 25 to 27.
Despite these fluctuations, the name Delores remains relatively rare compared to other names. As of 2022, the total number of Delores births recorded in the United States since 1890 stands at 117,790. This represents a fascinating journey through time, reflecting the changing tastes and trends of American parents over more than a century.