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Lavender

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Lavender Pronunciation

Lavender is pronounced LAV-en-der /ˈlæv.ən.dər/High

Meaning: The aromatic plant Lavandula; from Latin lavare (to wash), because lavender was used in Roman baths and laundryHigh

In 30 seconds: A botanical name drawn from the fragrant lavender plant, whose Latin root lavare means 'to wash.' The color and the scent both carry associations of calm, purity, and the Provencal countryside.

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Origin HighLatin, English

MeaningThe aromatic plant Lavandula; from Latin lavare (to wash), because lavender was used in Roman baths and laundry

U.S. rank (2024)#998 ↗ Rising

2024 U.S. births258 girls (0.02% of U.S. girls)

Peak year2024

Total births (all-time)≈ 2,098

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Lavender is the English name of the flowering plant Lavandula, derived from Latin lavare (to wash, to bathe), reflecting the plant's widespread use in Roman baths and laundry. The pale purple color associated with the flower also bears the name. As a given name, Lavender is a modern botanical choice.

Lavender has appeared in U.S. birth data since at least the late 20th century but remained rare until the 2010s–2020s, when botanical names surged. It ranked #998 for girls in 2024, sitting alongside Violet, Sage, and Magnolia in the botanical name trend.

Did you know? Lavender was so widely used to scent Roman laundry and bathwater that the Latin word for washing (lavare) gave the plant its name — reversing the usual plant-names-the-thing order.

Overall data confidence 92%

Behind the Name — Lavender — botanical etymologyU.S. Social Security Administration — popularity data

Variations

LavanderLavendar

Nicknames

LaviLavvyLavie

Themes & Styles

Latin Nature Floral Botanical Color Scent

Famous Bearers

Famous bearers coming soon.

If you like Lavender…

Violet— botanical color-name in the same purple/lavender spectrum

Sage— aromatic herb name in the same botanical category

Magnolia— large flowering plant name with the same romantic botanical feel

Clover— short herb name with the same earthy-sweet quality

Primrose— another English flowering plant name with the same vintage botanical charm

→ See all names like Lavender

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Frequently Asked

How do you pronounce Lavender?

Lavender is pronounced LAV-en-der (/ˈlæv.ən.dər/). Press play above to hear Lavender said aloud.

How do you say Lavender?

Lavender is said LAV-en-der (/ˈlæv.ən.dər/). Press play above to hear Lavender said aloud.

What does the name Lavender mean?

Lavender comes from Latin lavare (to wash); the plant was named for its use in Roman baths and laundry. As a name it carries the plant's associations with calm and fragrance.

Is Lavender a boy or girl name?

Lavender is used as a girls' name.

How popular is Lavender?

Lavender ranked #998 for U.S. girls in 2024.