Hazel is a unisex name of English origin that has been used for both boys and girls throughout history. The name comes from the hazel tree, which is known for its nuts and is often associated with wisdom and beauty.
The exact meaning of Hazel as a given name is not clear, but it is believed to be related to the Latin word "corylus," which refers to the hazelnut tree. Some sources suggest that Hazel means "to haggle" or "to barter," while others propose that it means "to protect" or "to defend."
The use of Hazel as a given name can be traced back to the Middle Ages in England, where it was often used for both boys and girls. However, its popularity has waxed and waned over the centuries. In the United States, for example, Hazel was particularly popular during the early 20th century, peaking at number 165 in 1900 before declining in usage by the mid-century.
Today, Hazel is still used as a given name but is more commonly used for girls than boys. In recent years, it has enjoyed some popularity due to its vintage-inspired sound and its association with natural beauty and wisdom. Some notable people named Hazel include actresses Hazel Court and Hazel O'Connor, as well as singer-songwriter Hazel Jane "Halsey" Robinson.
In literature and popular culture, Hazel has been used as a character name in various works, such as the novel "Watership Down" by Richard Adams and the animated film "The Nutcracker." The name's association with nature and wisdom makes it an appealing choice for parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their child. Overall, Hazel is a charming and distinctive name that carries with it a rich history and a connection to the natural world.
The name Hazel has seen a significant rise in popularity over the past few decades in the United States. According to data from the Social Security Administration, there were only 21 babies named Hazel in 1880. However, by 1885, that number had already increased to 281 births.
The trend of increasing popularity continued throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In 1912, there were 4197 babies named Hazel, and by 1920, that number had reached 7341. However, after reaching its peak in the 1920s, the popularity of the name Hazel began to decline.
By 1950, there were only 1181 babies named Hazel, and this downward trend continued throughout much of the mid-20th century. The lowest point for Hazel's popularity came in 1967, with only 256 births recorded.
However, starting in the late 1970s, the name Hazel began to regain its popularity. In 1980, there were 132 babies named Hazel, and this number has continued to rise steadily ever since. By 2020, there were 6154 babies named Hazel, marking a significant resurgence in popularity for the name.
Overall, while Hazel's popularity has had its ups and downs over the past century, it is clear that this name has seen a significant increase in recent years. It will be interesting to see if this trend continues into the future.