Meaning, origin, history
Hannelore is a unique and elegant name of German origin. It is composed of two elements: Hanna, which is derived from the Hebrew name Hannah meaning "grace" or "favor," and Lore, which means "laurel" in German. The laurel was a symbol of victory and success in ancient times.
The name Hannelore was particularly popular in Germany during the late 19th to mid-20th centuries. It is often associated with the character Hannelore "Hanne" Koch, a fictional girl created by Swiss author and illustrator Johanna Spyri, who is best known for her work "Heidi." In Spyri's story, Hanne is Heidi's companion during her stay in Frankfurt.
While not as commonly used today as it was in previous decades, Hannelore remains a beautiful and distinctive name that carries a rich history and cultural significance. It is often shortened to the more familiar Hanne or Lore, but retains its unique charm nonetheless. Overall, Hannelore is an excellent choice for parents looking for a name with a touch of elegance, grace, and historical importance.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Hannelore since 1880
Total births
260
Total since 1880
Peak year
1958
12 births
in 2023
7
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-60%
↘
vs previous 5 years