Dolores is a feminine given name of Spanish origin and meaning. It comes from the Spanish word "dolor," which means pain or sorrow. The name is often associated with the Virgin Mary, who is known as "La Dolorosa" in Spanish, referring to her suffering during the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
The name Dolores has been popular throughout history, particularly among Catholics due to its religious significance. It was also a common name in Spain and Latin America during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, it is still used as a given name but is less prevalent than it once was.
Some notable individuals with the name Dolores include:
* Dolores Ibárruri, also known as "La Pasionaria," was a Spanish politician and writer who played a significant role in the Spanish Civil War.
* Dolores del Río was a Mexican actress who gained fame during Hollywood's Golden Age.
* Dolores Huerta is an American labor activist and co-founder of the United Farm Workers union.
While these individuals are known for their accomplishments, it is essential to note that the name Dolores does not define them or their achievements. Like any given name, it simply serves as a means of identification.
The name Dolores has seen a significant fluctuation in its popularity over the years in the United States. Between 1880 and 2023, there have been a total of 211,317 births for girls named Dolores.
In the late 19th century, the number of births for this name was relatively low, with fewer than 30 occurrences each year from 1880 to 1894. However, starting in 1895, there was a notable increase in popularity, with over 40 births per year.
The highest point of popularity for the name Dolores came in the early 20th century. Between 1915 and 1929, the number of births rose dramatically, reaching a peak of 12,841 births in 1930.
After this peak, there was a steady decline in the popularity of the name Dolores. From 1931 to 2002, the number of annual births for girls named Dolores fell consistently, dropping below 100 births per year by the mid-1960s.
In recent years, there has been some resurgence in the use of the name Dolores. Between 2005 and 2023, the number of births for this name has fluctuated but remained relatively stable, with between 33 and 78 births per year.
Overall, while the popularity of the name Dolores has waxed and waned over time in the United States, it remains a distinctive and historically significant choice.