Lau

Girl Name
Origin:latin
Pronunciation:/laʊ/

Lau: a female name of Latin origin meaning "This name means “Laurel, from the place of laurel trees, laurel branch, laurel wreath". It derives from the Latin word "Laurus".

Lau has maintained its appeal as a feminine name in modern times while preserving its Latin roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "This name means “Laurel, from the place of laurel trees, laurel branch, laurel wreath" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.

Quick Facts About Lau

Quick facts about Lau
OriginLatin
GenderGirl name
PopularityUncommon

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name means “Laurel, from the place of laurel trees, laurel branch, laurel wreath.” The Laurel tree was sacred to the god Apollo and is a symbol of wisdom and glory. The name Laura and its variants are derived from the “bay laurel plant,” which was used as a symbol of victory, honor, or fame in the Greco-Roman era. In British North America, Laura’s name was likely trendy for female newborns until its rapid decline starting in the late 19th-century. The name Laura was among the top 40 names for female newborns for much of the late 19th-century in the United States until it dropped off the chart in 1899 at #43. Saint Laura of Cordoba (Spanish: Santa Laura de Córdoba) († 864) was a Spanish Christian who lived in Muslim Spain during the 9th-century. The Blessed Laura Vicuña (1891–1904) is a Chilean holy figure canonized as blessed by the Roman Catholic Church. She is the patron of abuse victims. Saints Florus and Laurus are venerated as Christian martyrs of the 2nd-century. According to a Greek tale, they were twin brothers who worked as stonemasons.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

Laurus

How to Pronounce Lau

Lau is pronounced /laʊ/(Latin)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Lau
  2. Say it like: "LAOO"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Lau is predominantly used in spanish speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.

spanish
Frequently Asked Questions About Lau
What does the name Lau mean?
Lau means "This name means “Laurel, from the place of laurel trees, laurel branch, laurel wreath.” The Laurel tree was sacred to the god Apollo and is a symbol of wisdom and glory. The name Laura and its variants are derived from the “bay laurel plant,” which was used as a symbol of victory, honor, or fame in the Greco-Roman era. In British North America, Laura’s name was likely trendy for female newborns until its rapid decline starting in the late 19th-century. The name Laura was among the top 40 names for female newborns for much of the late 19th-century in the United States until it dropped off the chart in 1899 at #43. Saint Laura of Cordoba (Spanish: Santa Laura de Córdoba) († 864) was a Spanish Christian who lived in Muslim Spain during the 9th-century. The Blessed Laura Vicuña (1891–1904) is a Chilean holy figure canonized as blessed by the Roman Catholic Church. She is the patron of abuse victims. Saints Florus and Laurus are venerated as Christian martyrs of the 2nd-century. According to a Greek tale, they were twin brothers who worked as stonemasons.". The name comes from Laurus. This latin name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Lau for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name means “Laurel, from the place of laurel trees, laurel branch, laurel wreath.” The Laurel tree was sacred to the god Apollo and is a symbol of wisdom and glory. The name Laura and its variants are derived from the “bay laurel plant,” which was used as a symbol of victory, honor, or fame in the Greco-Roman era. In British North America, Laura’s name was likely trendy for female newborns until its rapid decline starting in the late 19th-century. The name Laura was among the top 40 names for female newborns for much of the late 19th-century in the United States until it dropped off the chart in 1899 at #43. Saint Laura of Cordoba (Spanish: Santa Laura de Córdoba) († 864) was a Spanish Christian who lived in Muslim Spain during the 9th-century. The Blessed Laura Vicuña (1891–1904) is a Chilean holy figure canonized as blessed by the Roman Catholic Church. She is the patron of abuse victims. Saints Florus and Laurus are venerated as Christian martyrs of the 2nd-century. According to a Greek tale, they were twin brothers who worked as stonemasons." as a quality they hope to see in their child. Lau offers a distinctive option for parents who want a name with clear meaning that stands apart from more common choices. The name is associated with qualities like RELIGION (SAINTS), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Lau?
Lau is a latin name. The name traces back to Laurus. The name remains closely tied to spanish naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The latin meaning "This name means “Laurel, from the place of laurel trees, laurel branch, laurel wreath.” The Laurel tree was sacred to the god Apollo and is a symbol of wisdom and glory. The name Laura and its variants are derived from the “bay laurel plant,” which was used as a symbol of victory, honor, or fame in the Greco-Roman era. In British North America, Laura’s name was likely trendy for female newborns until its rapid decline starting in the late 19th-century. The name Laura was among the top 40 names for female newborns for much of the late 19th-century in the United States until it dropped off the chart in 1899 at #43. Saint Laura of Cordoba (Spanish: Santa Laura de Córdoba) († 864) was a Spanish Christian who lived in Muslim Spain during the 9th-century. The Blessed Laura Vicuña (1891–1904) is a Chilean holy figure canonized as blessed by the Roman Catholic Church. She is the patron of abuse victims. Saints Florus and Laurus are venerated as Christian martyrs of the 2nd-century. According to a Greek tale, they were twin brothers who worked as stonemasons." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Lau a boy or girl name?
Lau is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In latin tradition, Lau has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name means “Laurel, from the place of laurel trees, laurel branch, laurel wreath.” The Laurel tree was sacred to the god Apollo and is a symbol of wisdom and glory. The name Laura and its variants are derived from the “bay laurel plant,” which was used as a symbol of victory, honor, or fame in the Greco-Roman era. In British North America, Laura’s name was likely trendy for female newborns until its rapid decline starting in the late 19th-century. The name Laura was among the top 40 names for female newborns for much of the late 19th-century in the United States until it dropped off the chart in 1899 at #43. Saint Laura of Cordoba (Spanish: Santa Laura de Córdoba) († 864) was a Spanish Christian who lived in Muslim Spain during the 9th-century. The Blessed Laura Vicuña (1891–1904) is a Chilean holy figure canonized as blessed by the Roman Catholic Church. She is the patron of abuse victims. Saints Florus and Laurus are venerated as Christian martyrs of the 2nd-century. According to a Greek tale, they were twin brothers who worked as stonemasons." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Lau?
Lau is pronounced "/laʊ/". This pronunciation follows la language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Lau is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with latin names, listening to a native speaker say Lau can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. This pronunciation has been verified and represents the standard way to say the name.
What are common nicknames for Lau?
Lau is commonly used as a nickname for Laura. Being a shortened version of Laura, Lau offers a casual alternative that's quicker to say in everyday conversation. Many people named Laura go by Lau throughout their lives, using the full name only on official documents. In latin cultures, using Lau as a nickname carries a sense of familiarity and warmth. This nickname pattern is common among girls and women, though some now use Lau as a given name on its own. Today, parents sometimes put Lau on the birth certificate directly, skipping the longer form entirely. This gives the child a name that feels both complete and approachable.
How popular is the name Lau?
Lau is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Lau gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Lau's popularity may vary between latin communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name means “Laurel, from the place of laurel trees, laurel branch, laurel wreath.” The Laurel tree was sacred to the god Apollo and is a symbol of wisdom and glory. The name Laura and its variants are derived from the “bay laurel plant,” which was used as a symbol of victory, honor, or fame in the Greco-Roman era. In British North America, Laura’s name was likely trendy for female newborns until its rapid decline starting in the late 19th-century. The name Laura was among the top 40 names for female newborns for much of the late 19th-century in the United States until it dropped off the chart in 1899 at #43. Saint Laura of Cordoba (Spanish: Santa Laura de Córdoba) († 864) was a Spanish Christian who lived in Muslim Spain during the 9th-century. The Blessed Laura Vicuña (1891–1904) is a Chilean holy figure canonized as blessed by the Roman Catholic Church. She is the patron of abuse victims. Saints Florus and Laurus are venerated as Christian martyrs of the 2nd-century. According to a Greek tale, they were twin brothers who worked as stonemasons." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Lau holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Lau commonly used?
Lau is used primarily in spanish naming traditions. Though latin in origin, Lau found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name means “Laurel, from the place of laurel trees, laurel branch, laurel wreath.” The Laurel tree was sacred to the god Apollo and is a symbol of wisdom and glory. The name Laura and its variants are derived from the “bay laurel plant,” which was used as a symbol of victory, honor, or fame in the Greco-Roman era. In British North America, Laura’s name was likely trendy for female newborns until its rapid decline starting in the late 19th-century. The name Laura was among the top 40 names for female newborns for much of the late 19th-century in the United States until it dropped off the chart in 1899 at #43. Saint Laura of Cordoba (Spanish: Santa Laura de Córdoba) († 864) was a Spanish Christian who lived in Muslim Spain during the 9th-century. The Blessed Laura Vicuña (1891–1904) is a Chilean holy figure canonized as blessed by the Roman Catholic Church. She is the patron of abuse victims. Saints Florus and Laurus are venerated as Christian martyrs of the 2nd-century. According to a Greek tale, they were twin brothers who worked as stonemasons." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Lau into their naming traditions. A child named Lau will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Lau is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Lau?
Lau carries associations with RELIGION (SAINTS). These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name means “Laurel, from the place of laurel trees, laurel branch, laurel wreath.” The Laurel tree was sacred to the god Apollo and is a symbol of wisdom and glory. The name Laura and its variants are derived from the “bay laurel plant,” which was used as a symbol of victory, honor, or fame in the Greco-Roman era. In British North America, Laura’s name was likely trendy for female newborns until its rapid decline starting in the late 19th-century. The name Laura was among the top 40 names for female newborns for much of the late 19th-century in the United States until it dropped off the chart in 1899 at #43. Saint Laura of Cordoba (Spanish: Santa Laura de Córdoba) († 864) was a Spanish Christian who lived in Muslim Spain during the 9th-century. The Blessed Laura Vicuña (1891–1904) is a Chilean holy figure canonized as blessed by the Roman Catholic Church. She is the patron of abuse victims. Saints Florus and Laurus are venerated as Christian martyrs of the 2nd-century. According to a Greek tale, they were twin brothers who worked as stonemasons." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In latin culture, where Lau originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Lau sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Lau often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In spanish communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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