Origin and Meaning of Hazel
Meaning & Origin
The hazel tree; the color of hazel eyes
Origin: English - Derived from the Old English word 'hæsel', referring to the hazel tree, which is known for its nuts and sturdy wood.
Interesting Facts
- Hazel has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years, often associated with vintage and nature-inspired names.
- In some cultures, the hazel tree symbolizes wisdom and protection, and it is often referred to in folklore.
- Notable bearers of the name include Hazel Scott, a renowned pianist and civil rights activist, and the character Hazel Grace Lancaster from the novel 'The Fault in Our Stars' by John Green.
- In the United States, the name Hazel ranked highly among baby names, particularly in the early 1900s, before seeing a decline and then a revived popularity starting in the 2010s.
- Variations and related names include Hazelle and Haze, as well as culturally adapted versions like Aveline in French, which also denotes a type of nut.