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Name meaning & originLola

/LOH-lah/

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Lola is a Spanish girl's name pronounced /LOH-lah/. A melodic name meaning 'sorrows,' derived from a title for the Virgin Mary.

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Meaning of Lola

A melodic name meaning 'sorrows,' derived from a title for the Virgin Mary.

Lola originated as a diminutive of Dolores, which comes from the Spanish title 'Nuestra Señora de los Dolores,' meaning 'Our Lady of Sorrows.' While the root Latin word 'dolor' refers to pain or grief, the name historically honors the resilience and spiritual depth associated with the Virgin Mary. Over the 20th century, it detached from its religious roots to become a standalone name globally recognized for its playful yet sophisticated sound.

Origin
Spanish
Pronunciation
/LOH-lah/

Cultural background

While historically most popular in Spanish-speaking countries, Lola has become a fashionable, high-energy choice in English-speaking nations and parts of Western Europe.

Variations & nicknames

  • Lolita
  • Loli
  • Lola-Rose
  • Lulú
  • Dolores

Famous people named Lola

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Lola Montez

    Irish dancer and actress who became a famous mistress to King Ludwig I of Bavaria.

    Dance and Entertainment · 19th Century

  • Lola Falana

    American singer, dancer, and actress known as the 'Queen of Las Vegas'.

    Entertainment · 20th Century

  • Lola Bunny

    Iconic animated character from the Looney Tunes and Space Jam franchise.

    Animation · Modern

  • Lola Glaudini

    American actress known for her roles in Criminal Minds and The Sopranos.

    Television · Modern

  • Lola Pagnani

    Italian film and television actress and dancer.

    Film · Modern

Frequently asked about Lola

Is Lola a nickname or a full name?
Originally a nickname for Dolores, Lola is now widely recognized and registered as a complete legal first name in its own right.
What is the meaning behind the name Lola?
It translates to 'sorrows,' referring to the Seven Sorrows of Mary, representing strength and endurance through hardship.
Is Lola used for boys?
Lola is almost exclusively used as a feminine name in Western cultures, though in some Central Asian languages like Uzbek, 'Lola' means 'Tulip' and is also female.

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