Lola is a charming and unique female given name of Spanish origin. Its roots can be traced back to the Spanish word "lola," which means "grandmother" or "old woman." However, Lola's meaning has evolved over time, and it is now often associated with the French word "chère," meaning "dear."
The name Lola gained popularity in Spain during the late 19th century, partly due to its use in Federico García Lorca's play "Yerma." In this work, the character Yermo calls her husband "Lola" as an affectionate nickname. The name also appeared in other Spanish plays and literature of that era, further cementing its popularity.
In the early 20th century, Lola's popularity spread beyond Spain, particularly to France and other European countries. It was around this time that the French interpretation of Lola as "dear" began to gain traction. This shift in meaning contributed to the name's widespread appeal across different cultures.
Today, Lola remains a beloved and distinctive name among parents looking for an original choice for their daughters. Its Spanish roots give it an exotic touch, while its association with the word "chère" makes it endearing and warm. Despite its origins as a term of endearment or familiarity, Lola has evolved into a strong and independent-sounding name in its own right.
In summary, Lola is a unique and captivating female given name with Spanish roots. Though originally meaning "grandmother," its modern interpretation leans more towards the French "chère," or "dear." With its rich literary history and timeless appeal, Lola continues to be an attractive choice for parents seeking a distinctive name for their daughters.
Between the years 1895 and 1944, there were a total of 275 girls named Lola born in the United States each year. The number of births varied from year to year, with some years seeing as many as 12 babies named Lola born (in 1926), while other years saw fewer than five births with that name (from 1895 to 1897, and again in 1930, 1932, 1933, and 1936). The highest number of births occurred during the early 1920s, with the peak being in 1922 when there were 11 babies named Lola born that year. Overall, it can be seen that the name Lola was moderately popular during this time period, but did not reach the heights of some other names that were popular at the time.