Lola

Origin

The name Lola originates from the Spanish diminutive for Dolores, meaning 'sorrows'. It gained popularity in the early 20th century, influenced by romantic and exotic imagery. While primarily Spanish in origin, Lola became widespread in English-speaking countries including Australia, often associated with cinema and pop culture. It is not related to Aboriginal or Māori languages or naming traditions.

Meaning

Literal translation is 'sorrows', reflecting its roots in the Spanish phrase 'Dolores'. In Australian contexts, Lola is often perceived as a lively, vibrant name with an exotic flair, embodying a sense of playfulness and charm.

Pronunciation

/ˈlɒlə/ (Australian pronunciation: /ˈlɒlə/ or /ˈloʊlə/ with emphasis on the first syllable) — pronounced 'LOH-lah'. The stress falls on the first syllable.

Variants & Nicknames

Name Days

• 15 August (Feast of the Assumption, commemorating Mary, mother of Jesus)
• 14 September (Blessed Virgin Mary of Sorrows) - Not widely observed in Australia but recognized in Catholic liturgical calendars.
• Māori celebrations of Rā Whānau (Maori New Year) are culturally significant but do not specifically commemorate the name Lola.

Name Pairings

Names that pair well with lola:

• Charlotte and Lola
• Amelia and Lola
• Sophie and Lola

Fun Facts

• Lola was popularised in Australia partly due to the influence of 1960s pop music, notably The Kinks' song 'Lola'.
• The name is often used in Australian film and theatre for lively, charismatic characters.
• Famous Australians named Lola include Lola Kelly, a noted actress in local theatre during the 2000s.

Personality Traits

Common traits associated with the name lola:

• Playful
• Vibrant
• Charming
• Confident

Aesthetic Qualities

The name offers a visually attractive, balanced symmetry with a soft, vowel-rich structure, popular in modern and classic typographic forms in Australian media.

Geographical Distribution

Most common in urban centres such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, especially among families seeking a distinctive or internationally fashionable name.

Numerological Significance

Name number 3—symbolising creativity and communication—associated with lively, expressive personalities, aligning with cultural perceptions of the name.

Astrological Connections

The name resonates with Leo and Gemini astrological signs, noted for their expressive and sociable traits, enhancing its vibrant, outgoing connotations.

Historical Context

Lola became incorporated into Australian popular culture through adaptations in theatre, film, and literature. Its rising popularity coincides with Australia's cultural openness and appreciation of international names.

Linguistic Adaptability

The name Lola easily adapts across languages, maintaining pronunciation similarities globally, and is frequently spelled identically in various scripts.

Famous People Named lola

• Lola Kelly (Actress)
• Lola Young (Australian singer)
• Lola Heath (Fictional character in Australian literature)

Popularity in Australia