Laverna is a unique and distinctive female given name of Latin origin. The name is derived from the Latin word "laver" which means "to wash." Laverna was also the goddess of thieves in Roman mythology, often depicted as washing stolen goods to conceal their origins.
The name Laverna has a rich history dating back to ancient Rome. It is believed that the name originated from an Etruscan deity named Lartes, who was later identified with the Roman goddess Venus. The name Laverna may have been used to honor this goddess or as a reference to her role in cleansing and purifying stolen goods.
In medieval times, Laverna became associated with Saint Lawrence, also known as Laurence of Rome, who was martyred for his faith in 258 AD. According to legend, Lawrence was tortured on a gridiron and his flesh was burned, but he remained unharmed due to divine intervention. Some believe that the name Laverna may have been inspired by this saint's miraculous survival of fire.
Today, Laverna is still considered an unusual and rare name, but it has gained some popularity in recent years as parents seek unique and meaningful names for their children. Despite its rarity, Laverna remains a strong and distinctive name with a rich historical legacy that continues to intrigue and inspire those who hear it.
"The name Laverna saw a notable rise in popularity around the early 1900s, peaking between 1914 and 1920 with over 100 births annually. After World War II, its usage declined significantly, dropping to single-digit figures by the mid-1960s and remaining low ever since."