The name Lorette is of French origin and is a feminine given name. It was popular in France during the Middle Ages and was often used to honor the Virgin Mary, who was believed to have appeared at a place called the Sainte-Baume in southern France.
The name Lorette is derived from the Occitan word "Laur" which means "laurel". The laurel tree was sacred to Apollo, the Greek god of light, music, and prophecy. In ancient times, laurel wreaths were worn as a symbol of victory and poetic inspiration. Therefore, the name Lorette is associated with triumph and creative pursuits.
Over time, the name Lorette has been used in various forms across different cultures. In Italy, for example, it is known as "Loretta". In Spain, it is translated to "Loretana" or "Lauretana". Despite these variations, the core meaning of the name remains unchanged.
Today, Lorette continues to be a popular choice among parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their daughter. Its French origin gives it a certain elegance, while its association with creativity and triumph adds depth to its significance. Whether it's pronounced "Loh-reht" or "Lo-reh-t", the name Lorette carries with it a rich history and timeless beauty.
The name Lorette has seen a varied pattern of usage in the United States over the past century and a half. Between 1897 and 1934, there were periods of popularity for the name, with peaks in births occurring in several years. The highest number of babies named Lorette during this period was in 1922, with 27 births.
However, after 1934, the usage of the name Lorette began to decline significantly. Between 1935 and 1968, there were only a handful of years where more than ten babies were named Lorette at birth. The lowest point in this period was in 1972, with just six births.
After a brief resurgence in the late 1960s and early 1970s, the name Lorette once again declined in popularity. Between 1975 and 2012, there were only five years where more than five babies were named Lorette at birth.
Overall, since 1897, a total of 1096 babies have been named Lorette at birth in the United States. This data shows that while Lorette was once a popular name, its usage has significantly declined over time.