Laurence is a unisex given name of Latin origin, derived from the Roman family name Laurentius. It is believed to have been adopted as a Christian name due to its association with Saint Lawrence, one of the most venerated saints in the Catholic Church. The name means "from Laurentum," an ancient city near Rome, or "laurel-bearing," referencing the laurel tree and wreaths made from its leaves, which were used to crown victorious Romans.
The name Laurence has been used throughout history, with notable figures bearing this name including several saints and popes. It was also the name of a 15th-century French poet, known as "Master François." In literature, Laurence Sterne's novel "Tristram Shandy" features a character named Laurence, while in music, Laurence Juber is a renowned British guitarist and composer.
In terms of popularity, Laurence has been more commonly used as a boys' name. However, it has also been given to girls, particularly in France. In the United States, the peak of its usage was during the 1930s and 1940s when it was among the top 500 names for both boys and girls. Today, Laurence remains a uncommon name, adding to its uniqueness.
Some variants and related names include Larry, Laurie, Lorenzo, Laurent, Laurentius, and Lorenzo. In other languages, Laurence may be translated as Laurenzo (Italian), Lorens (Swedish), Lorenz (German), Łorenc (Polish), or Лоранс (Russian).
In summary, Laurence is a historic name with Latin origins, carrying a rich cultural heritage and a diverse range of associations across different fields. Its uniqueness today makes it an appealing choice for parents seeking distinctive names for their children.
These statistics show the annual number of babies named Laurence from 1890 to 2022, with a total of 490 births over this period. The name's popularity fluctuated significantly over time, ranging from just one birth in some years to a peak of 18 births in 1925. The majority of years show between 5 and 9 Laurence births annually, with a noticeable decline in recent decades, suggesting the name may have fallen out of fashion.