Choosing a name for your baby is a significant decision, steeped in meaning and hope for the future. The name Louisa is a classic choice, offering a blend of elegance and strength. Let’s explore the popularity, meaning, and alternatives of the name Louisa to help you determine if it’s the perfect fit for your little one.
Louisa Name Popularity
How popular is the name Louisa? Here’s a detailed look at its historical trends:
The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides data on name popularity dating back to 1910. Analyzing this data gives us a glimpse into Louisa’s journey through the years. While it may not consistently rank among the top 100 names, it has maintained a presence, showcasing its enduring appeal.
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910 | 516 | 29 | 0.0082% |
| 1911 | 491 | 34 | 0.0091% |
| 1912 | 558 | 40 | 0.0079% |
| 1913 | 405 | 106 | 0.0187% |
| 1914 | 450 | 105 | 0.0151% |
| 1915 | 453 | 135 | 0.0149% |
| 1916 | 427 | 172 | 0.0178% |
| 1917 | 476 | 144 | 0.0144% |
| 1918 | 535 | 125 | 0.0116% |
| 1919 | 485 | 147 | 0.014% |
| 1920 | 500 | 147 | 0.0132% |
| 1921 | 555 | 123 | 0.0107% |
| 1922 | 602 | 106 | 0.0095% |
| 1923 | 592 | 108 | 0.0096% |
| 1924 | 574 | 122 | 0.0105% |
| 1925 | 511 | 148 | 0.0131% |
| 1926 | 553 | 116 | 0.0105% |
| 1927 | 590 | 103 | 0.0093% |
| 1928 | 591 | 96 | 0.009% |
| 1929 | 564 | 99 | 0.0096% |
| 1930 | 559 | 103 | 0.0099% |
| 1931 | 654 | 61 | 0.0062% |
| 1932 | 572 | 89 | 0.009% |
| 1933 | 624 | 66 | 0.0071% |
| 1934 | 627 | 68 | 0.007% |
| 1935 | 764 | 41 | 0.0042% |
| 1936 | 606 | 74 | 0.0077% |
| 1937 | 678 | 59 | 0.006% |
| 1938 | 686 | 59 | 0.0058% |
| 1939 | 701 | 54 | 0.0053% |
| 1940 | 643 | 76 | 0.0072% |
| 1941 | 668 | 69 | 0.0061% |
| 1942 | 718 | 64 | 0.0051% |
| 1943 | 741 | 63 | 0.0048% |
| 1944 | 685 | 75 | 0.0061% |
| 1945 | 681 | 76 | 0.0062% |
| 1946 | 723 | 80 | 0.0054% |
| 1947 | 699 | 101 | 0.0061% |
| 1948 | 784 | 73 | 0.0046% |
| 1949 | 709 | 98 | 0.0061% |
| 1950 | 705 | 103 | 0.0064% |
| 1951 | 795 | 80 | 0.0047% |
| 1952 | 783 | 86 | 0.0049% |
| 1953 | 738 | 105 | 0.0059% |
| 1954 | 788 | 94 | 0.0051% |
| 1955 | 846 | 85 | 0.0046% |
| 1956 | 832 | 94 | 0.005% |
| 1957 | 924 | 77 | 0.004% |
| 1958 | 804 | 106 | 0.0056% |
| 1959 | 900 | 85 | 0.0045% |
| 1960 | 829 | 108 | 0.0057% |
| 1961 | 883 | 97 | 0.0051% |
| 1962 | 882 | 93 | 0.0051% |
| 1963 | 899 | 84 | 0.0047% |
| 1964 | 903 | 84 | 0.0048% |
| 1965 | 837 | 92 | 0.0056% |
| 1966 | 879 | 81 | 0.0052% |
| 1967 | 1013 | 57 | 0.0038% |
| 1968 | 924 | 75 | 0.005% |
| 1969 | 1017 | 64 | 0.0042% |
| 1970 | 1038 | 68 | 0.0043% |
| 1971 | 1044 | 67 | 0.0045% |
| 1972 | 1180 | 45 | 0.0033% |
| 1973 | 1292 | 35 | 0.0027% |
| 1974 | 1269 | 41 | 0.0032% |
| 1975 | 1188 | 50 | 0.0039% |
| 1976 | 1308 | 40 | 0.0031% |
| 1977 | 1255 | 50 | 0.0037% |
| 1978 | 1187 | 58 | 0.0043% |
| 1979 | 1301 | 49 | 0.0035% |
| 1980 | 1184 | 64 | 0.0044% |
| 1981 | 1172 | 66 | 0.0045% |
| 1982 | 1225 | 59 | 0.0039% |
| 1983 | 1212 | 56 | 0.0038% |
| 1984 | 1105 | 75 | 0.005% |
| 1985 | 1360 | 48 | 0.0032% |
| 1986 | 1535 | 36 | 0.0024% |
| 1987 | 1305 | 56 | 0.0037% |
| 1988 | 1841 | 26 | 0.0017% |
| 1989 | 1402 | 59 | 0.0037% |
| 1990 | 1360 | 69 | 0.0042% |
| 1991 | 1643 | 46 | 0.0028% |
| 1992 | 1427 | 65 | 0.0041% |
| 1993 | 1589 | 49 | 0.0031% |
| 1994 | 1797 | 36 | 0.0023% |
| 1995 | 1690 | 41 | 0.0027% |
| 1996 | 1456 | 62 | 0.0041% |
| 1997 | 1604 | 51 | 0.0034% |
| 1998 | 1402 | 71 | 0.0047% |
| 1999 | 1619 | 52 | 0.0035% |
| 2000 | 2008 | 33 | 0.0022% |
| 2001 | 1788 | 47 | 0.0031% |
| 2002 | 1594 | 62 | 0.0041% |
| 2003 | 1609 | 62 | 0.0041% |
| 2004 | 1541 | 70 | 0.0046% |
| 2005 | 1675 | 59 | 0.0039% |
| 2006 | 1641 | 67 | 0.0043% |
| 2007 | 1583 | 77 | 0.0049% |
| 2008 | 1713 | 65 | 0.0042% |
| 2009 | 1487 | 88 | 0.0059% |
| 2010 | 1479 | 85 | 0.0059% |
| 2011 | 1153 | 144 | 0.0101% |
| 2012 | 1085 | 165 | 0.0116% |
| 2013 | 962 | 195 | 0.0137% |
| 2014 | 892 | 237 | 0.0163% |
| 2015 | 836 | 263 | 0.0181% |
| 2016 | 778 | 299 | 0.0207% |
| 2017 | 715 | 320 | 0.0229% |
| 2018 | 695 | 335 | 0.0244% |
| 2019 | 638 | 381 | 0.0281% |
| 2020 | 723 | 332 | 0.0261% |
| 2021 | 714 | 328 | 0.0268% |
| 2022 | 838 | 284 | 0.0215% |
| 2023 | 804 | 305 | 0.0236% |
In recent years, Louisa has seen a resurgence in popularity, indicating a renewed appreciation for this timeless name. The data shows a clear upward trend from the early 2010s to 2023. This could be attributed to various factors, including celebrity influence, a preference for vintage names, or simply its melodic sound.
Meaning and Origin of Louisa
Louisa is a feminine given name of German origin. It is derived from the Old High German name "Hluodowig," composed of the elements "hlud" meaning "famous" and "wig" meaning "warrior." Thus, the name Louisa carries the strong and noble meaning of "famous warrior" or "renowned in battle." It is a traditionally feminine form of the name Louis.
Louisa is often associated with qualities like grace, intelligence, and resilience. The name has been borne by notable figures throughout history, further adding to its appeal and prestige.
Names Like Louisa
If you’re drawn to the charm of Louisa but want to explore similar options, here are some names that share a similar sound or style:
Sound-Alike Names:
- Lluisa: A Spanish variant, also meaning "famous warrior."
- Louiza: A German variant with the same meaning.
- Luisa: Another Spanish and Italian form of Louis/Louise.
Similar Names:
- Jolisa: An American name.
- Larisa: A Latin name meaning "cheerful, lighthearted."
- Lisa: A diminutive of Elizabeth.
- Lois: A Greek name meaning "superior."
- Loise: A German name, also meaning "famous warrior."
- Loria: An English name.
- Lorissa: A Latin name, meaning "cheerful, lighthearted."
- Louisina: A German name, also meaning "famous warrior."
- Lovisa: A German name, also meaning "famous warrior."
- Lowise: A German name, also meaning "famous warrior."
- Loyise: A German name, also meaning "famous warrior."
- Luise: A German name, also meaning "famous warrior."
- Luiza: A Spanish name and form of Luis.
- Lusa: A Hebrew name, meaning "God’s promise; God is my oath".
Lists Featuring Louisa
Consider looking at lists of vintage baby names or names with German origins for more inspiration. These lists can help you discover names that resonate with the style and meaning you’re seeking.
Conclusion
The name Louisa is a beautiful and meaningful choice for a baby girl. Its classic appeal, strong meaning, and subtle elegance make it a name that will stand the test of time. Whether you’re drawn to its historical significance, its melodic sound, or its association with strength and grace, Louisa is a name worth considering for your little one. The data suggests a resurgence in popularity, proving that this timeless name is ready for a new generation.
(Data via SSA.gov)
