Surname Laura - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'L'
Laura: What does the surname Laura mean?
The surname Laura does not have a clear or specific meaning as its meaning could vary depending on the cultural and geographic origins. In many cases, last names are derived from occupations, geographical locations, or personal characteristics. However, the first name Laura is of Latin origin and means 'laurel'. The laurel, in ancient Rome, was used as a symbol of victory, honor, and accomplishment, hence the term "resting on one's laurels". So it's conceivable that the surname could also be associated with achievement or victory. This interpretation, though, might not apply in every case as the origins of surnames are complex and diverse. It is always best to look at individual families and their histories to understand the specific meaning or significance of a last name.
Order DNA origin analysisLaura: Where does the name Laura come from?
The surname Laura is believed to originate from Italy, with possible connections to Spain as well. It is derived from the Latin name Laurus, meaning "laurel", a plant traditionally associated with accomplishment and victory in ancient Roman society. Over time, this Latin root evolved into Laura, which then got established as a surname in several regions.
Today, the surname Laura is common in both Italy and Spain but has also spread to various parts of the globe due to migration. Notably, there is a significant presence in the United States, especially in California, New York, and Texas as per white-pages data. Additionally, it is found in several Latin American countries, particularly in Peru and Bolivia, likely a result of Spanish colonization. In general, despite its comparatively rare usage, its bearers can be found dispersed worldwide and across various ethnicities due to the global diaspora and intermarriage.
Variations of the surname Laura
The surname Laura might have different spelling variants and it is important to note that the origins of surnames can frequently be traced back to different cultures and languages. The variations of Laura, which is predominantly considered as a given name rather than a surname could include Laure, Laur, Laurah, Laurra, or Lora.
Other possible related surnames could be Laurie, Lauren, Laurens, Laurent, Lauritsen, or Lauritzen, which are derived from "Laurel" or "Lauren," meaning 'laurel tree' or 'sweet of honor' or 'wisdom.'
Moreover, surnames like de Laura, di Laura, or von Laura can appear, denoting the geographical origin of a family in different languages (Spanish, Italian, German respectively), meaning "of/from Laura".
In some cultures, at times, the mother's name is used as a surname, hence Laura used as a surname may not have any variants. If used in the Hispanic naming system, it could be part of a double-barrelled surname, for instance, González-Laura or Pérez-Laura where Laura is the mother's maiden name.
It is also noteworthy that surname variants can be quite arbitrary, and can be influenced by factors such as regional dialects, the literacy level of the individual who first wrote it down, and simple personal choice.
Famous people with the name Laura
- Laura Linney: An Emmy award-winning American actress who has starred in many television series, films, and stage productions.
- Laura Prepon: An American actress known for her roles on the television sitcoms That '70s Show, Orange Is the New Black, and The Ranch.
- Laura Pausini: An Italian singer-songwriter who has won numerous music awards, including the best-selling female artist in Italian history.
- Laura Ingalls Wilder: An American author whose books about pioneer life in the United States have been adapted for television as the long-running show Little House on the Prairie.
- Laura Marano: An American actress and singer known for her role in the Disney Channel series Austin & Ally and the Netflix film The Perfect Date.
- Laura Antonelli: An Italian actress popular during the 1960s and 1970s and starred in some erotic and romantic comedy films.
- Laura Beslik: A Swedish professional tennis player and model.
- Laura Werlau: An American serial entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist.
- Laura Trott: A British cyclist and four-time Olympic champion.
- Laura Muñoz: A Spanish middleweight kickboxer and mixed martial artist.