Laura

Laura is a feminine given name of Latin origin. It derives from laurus, meaning laurel or the laurel tree, a symbol of victory and honor in ancient Rome. The name is often associated with the laurel wreath worn to crown poets and heroes. In various languages, Laura has taken forms such as Laure, Laurel, and Lora, and it is widely used across Europe, the Americas, and elsewhere.

Historically, the name appears in medieval Latin texts and later gained popularity in Europe. In the Renaissance, the name became well known in part due to Petrarch's sonnet sequence about his beloved Laura, which helped spread the name's romantic associations. In the modern era, Laura has remained a common choice in many English-speaking and Romance-language regions, with usage varying by country and era. It is frequently found among lists of classic or traditional names.

Variants and related forms include Laurel (English cognate), Lauretta (Italian diminutive), and Lora (variant used in several languages).

Notable people named Laura include Laura Bush, former First Lady of the United States; Laura Linney, American actress; Laura Pausini, Italian singer; Laura Dern, American actress; and Laura Ingalls Wilder, American author. The name is widely used by women across many cultures, contributing to a long-standing presence in literature, music, and public life.