Iola is a unique and charming name of Hawaiian origin. It is derived from the Hawaiian word 'iwa', which means "to cry out" or "to shout". The name Iola is often associated with strength, courage, and determination, as it is believed to represent someone who can shout or cry out above the noise and stand tall amidst adversity.
The history of the name Iola is not extensively documented, but it is believed to have been popularized in the late 19th century by American author Harriet Beecher Stowe. She used the name for a character in her novel "Oldtown Folks", published in 1869. Since then, the name has gained popularity among parents seeking distinctive and meaningful names for their daughters.
Today, Iola remains a relatively uncommon name, but it continues to capture the hearts of those who appreciate its unique sound and significant meaning. It is often associated with individuals who possess inner strength and resilience, traits that are reflected in its Hawaiian origins. Overall, Iola is a beautiful and powerful name that carries a rich history and meaningful symbolism.
The name Iola has seen a fluctuating trend in its popularity over the years in the United States. Between 1880 and 1923, there was a significant increase in the number of babies named Iola, with a peak of 368 births recorded in 1918. However, after 1924, the popularity of the name began to decline, reaching its lowest point in recent years with only 5 births recorded in 2019.
Despite this decrease in popularity, there have been some upswings in recent decades. For example, between 1970 and 2023, there were a total of 467 births registered with the name Iola. While this is significantly lower than the peak years of the early 20th century, it still indicates that the name continues to be chosen for some newborn girls.
Overall, while the popularity of the name Iola has varied greatly over time in the United States, it remains a unique and distinctive choice for parents looking for an uncommon name for their daughters.