Originating from France, the given name Lorraine is derived from the region of the same name, which translates to 'from Laurentum' or 'laurel land.' It was initially used as a surname but began to be employed as a given name in the 19th century. The name Lorraine has been popularized by several notable figures, such as French-American actress Loretta Young and Lorraine Hansberry, an African American playwright known for her groundbreaking work 'A Raisin in the Sun.'
"The name Lorraine experienced significant popularity between 1905 and 1929, peaking at 40 births in 1930. However, it has since declined steadily, with only 5 births recorded in the most recent year available (1989). Over the entire period, a total of 935 babies were named Lorraine."