Origin, Meaning, And History Of Hazel
An English origin name, Hazel means ‘the hazel tree.’ The name comes from the Old English word ‘hæsel,’ which also refers to the tree or its brown color. The name also refers to the color hazel. It is a gender-neutral name but is mostly used for females. Back in the 12th century, the name was used as a surname for people who resided near the hazel tree. In olden days, wands made of hazel wood were a symbol of authority and security.
Hazell, Heizle, Hazelle, and Hasel are some of its variants. In the US, the longer versions include Hazelmarie, Hazelgrace, and Hazelmae.
According to the Social Security Administration, Hazel featured amongst the top 25 names in the US in the early 1990s. The name, however, slowly slipped through the ranks in the 1960s. After a sudden surge in 2014, the name was listed in the top 100 in 2015. In 2021, Hazel ranked at 28, which is 3 spots higher than its previous rank.
Fiction writers are in awe of this name. Hazel Lancaster was the main character in author John Green’s popular novel, ‘Fault in Our Stars.’ In the British animated movie, released in 1978, ‘Watership Down’ the male rabbit was named Hazel. The 1952 novel, ‘Wise Blood’ by Flannery O’Connor has a protagonist named Hazel Motes. Fantasy series writer, Rick Riordan, too had a character named, Hazel Levesque, a daughter of Pluto and one of the seven heroes of the Prophecy of Seven.
Hollywood too is impressed with this name. Actress Julia Roberts named one of her twin daughters, Hazel. However, celebrity couple, John Krasinski and Emily Blunt could be credited for adding to the popularity of this name as they chose it for their elder daughter in 2014, the same year this name recorded a surge in the popularity index.
How To Pronounce Hazel?
Famous People With The Name Hazel
- Hazel Wood WatermanAmerican architect
- Hazel Hotchkiss WightmanAmerican tennis player
- Hazel SchmollAmerican botanist
- Hazel ByfordConservative member of House of Lords, Britain
- Hazel BlearsBritish politician and Labour MP for Salford
- Hazel HayesIrish YouTuber, filmmaker, and author
- Hazel CourtBritish actress
Hazel On The Popularity Chart
Hazel may be an old name but it still has a very young appeal. It has been around for a long while and has managed to stay relevant all through these years.
Popularity Over Time
Hazel took its time to capture the attention of parents. It had its first 1000 names registered in 2009. Since then, it has been on a rise until its peak in 2021, when it had 5967 names registered in the US. Check out the graph below to see its rise over the years.
Source:Social Security AdministrationRank Over Time
From a 1079 rank in 1980 to its first breakthrough in top 100 named in 2015, Hazel has persevered a long while. But the name has been on a rise. Have a look at the graph below to understand its trajectory over the years.
Source:Social Security AdministrationNames With Similar Sound As Hazel
Hazel has a vibrant ring to it. Its connection to a tree makes it even more pleasant. Here are some more names that have a similar sound.
Popular Sibling Names For Hazel
Other Popular Names Beginning With H
Names With Same Meaning As Hazel
If the botanical connection of Hazel appeals to you then have a look at these names with a similar meaning.
Infographic: Know The Name’s Personality As Per Numerology
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How To Communicate The Name In Other Languages
In Nautical Flags
hazel
In Sign Language
hazel
In Braille Alphabet
hazel
In Morse Code
hazel
Name Numerology For Hazel
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the meaning of the name Hazel?
The name Hazel means ‘the hazel tree.’
2. What is the origin of the name Hazel?
Hazel has an English origin.
3. How to pronounce the name Hazel?
Hazel is pronounced as ha-zel.
4. Is Hazel a popular name for girls?
Hazel, a feminine name, entered the scene in 1990 and has witnessed varying levels of popularity. After a period of decline between 1955 and 2002, Hazel started gaining momentum again. In 2022, a total of 6,125 babies were given the name Hazel, showcasing its renewed popularity (1).
5. What is the spiritual meaning of Hazel?
榛树拥有的人y symbolic meanings. It represents enlightenment, wisdom, inspiration, divination, and knowledge. According to ancient stories, Odin, a powerful god, spent days hanging from a hazel tree to learn about the magical symbols of the runes. In Celtic mythology, the hazel tree is sacred and linked to wisdom. The hazel tree’s unique way of branching has even inspired artists. Additionally, some cultures see hazelwood as a protective force against negativity or evil spirits. The hazel tree also goes through growth and shedding cycles, symbolizing transformation and new beginnings.
6. What are the nicknames for someone named Hazel?
Adorable nicknames such as Azie, Haze, Hazelnut, Hazey, Zell, Zella, and Zelly are often seen accompanying the given name Hazel. These make for the perfect terms of affection for baby girls named Hazel.
7. Is Hazel a traditional or modern name choice?
Hazel is considered both a traditional and modern name choice. The name was widely popular in the 19th century, experiencing an increasing decline between 1955 and 2002. In recent years, Hazel has experienced a resurgence in popularity, becoming more trendy and fashionable.
8. Is Hazel used as a unisex name?
Hazel is most often used for girls. It is an English name with its origins rooted in the hazel tree. The name is derived from the Old English word ‘hæsel,’ which is associated with the tree itself and its brown hue.
References:
- Popularity of name Hazel.
https://www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames/
