Lawrence is a name of Latin origin, derived from the Roman family name Laurentius. This name was used by several early Christian saints and martyrs, including St. Lawrence of Rome, who was an early Christian deacon and one of the seven deacons appointed by Saint Matthias. He was martyred in 258 AD during the persecution of Christians under Emperor Valerian.
The meaning of the name Lawrence is "from Laurentum," a town located in Italy. It can also be translated as "laurel-bearing" or "of Laurentum." The laurel plant was sacred to the ancient Romans and associated with victory, triumph, and fame. Therefore, the name Lawrence may have been chosen for its positive connotations of success and renown.
The name Lawrence has been used throughout history by many notable figures. In addition to the early Christian saints, several popes have taken the name Lawrence, including Pope Lawrence (253-257) and Pope Lawrence II (607). Additionally, prominent individuals named Lawrence include the English novelist D.H. Lawrence, the American musician Bruce Lawrence (better known as Bruce Lee), and the British statesman and philosopher Laurence Sterne.
Throughout its history, the name Lawrence has maintained a consistent popularity in many cultures around the world. It was among the top 100 boys' names in the United States during the 20th century, according to Social Security Administration records. Today, it continues to be a popular choice for parents looking for a strong and timeless name for their sons.
In summary, Lawrence is a Latin-derived name with a rich history and significant meaning. It has been worn by many notable figures throughout history and remains a popular choice among parents today due to its classic and enduring appeal.
Here are some statistical insights about the name Lawrence in the United States:
The number of births with the name Lawrence has fluctuated over time. In the late 19th to early 20th century, the highest peaks occurred between 1913 and 1928, with a notable high of 44 births in 1927.
After World War II, the popularity of the name Lawrence started to decline. From 1945 onwards, the number of births with this name ranged mostly between 20 and 30 per year, with some exceptions such as 34 births in 1952 and 34 births in 1959.
In recent years, there has been a slight increase in popularity. Between 2017 and 2023, the number of births with the name Lawrence ranged from 5 to 12 per year. This shows that while Lawrence may not be as popular as it once was, it remains a relevant choice for parents.
In total, over the years from 1890 to 2023, there were 2,164 births with the name Lawrence in the United States.