Lupe is a unique and interesting name with an intriguing history. It is of Spanish origin, derived from the word "loba," which means "she-wolf." In some sources, it is also suggested that Lupe may be short for the name Guadalupe, which has its roots in the Mexican town of Guadalupe, named after Our Lady of Guadalupe.
The name Lupe was popularized by actress Lupe Velez, who was known as "the Mexican Spitfire" during her heyday in Hollywood in the 1930s. She was often cast as fiery and tempestuous characters, and her persona contributed to the perception of Lupe as a strong-willed and passionate name.
Throughout history, there have been several notable figures named Lupe. One of the most famous is Lupe Ontiveros, an American actress known for her roles in films such as "El Norte," "The Little Girl Who Lives Down the Lane," and "Senseless." She was also a prominent figure in the Latinx community, advocating for greater representation of Latino actors and actresses in Hollywood.
In literature, Lupe appears as a character in the novel "The Hummingbird's Daughter" by Luis Alberto Urrea. The protagonist, Tita, is nicknamed Lupe by her mother, highlighting the informal and intimate nature of the name.
Today, Lupe continues to be a popular choice among parents looking for unique and meaningful names for their daughters. Its Spanish origins give it an exotic and intriguing sound, while its short and catchy pronunciation makes it easy to remember. Ultimately, Lupe is a name that combines strength, passion, and uniqueness in one captivating package.
Based on the provided statistics, the name Lupe appears to have been quite popular between 1912 and 1943, with over a thousand births recorded during those years alone (1,578 births). However, its popularity has significantly declined since then, with fewer than 100 births annually from 1944 onwards. Between 1996 and 2019, there were only 132 births recorded, indicating that Lupe is now quite an uncommon name.