Hazel Overview
- Meaning: “Hazel” is a name meaning “the color hazel,” as well as the tree, also called “hazel.”
- Origin: “Hazel” is derivative of the Old English word “hæsel.”
- Gender: Hazel is a girl’s name. However, it has been popular for boys in the past, specifically in the early 20th century.
- Popularity: Since 2017, Hazel has stayed in the top 50 names for female babies in the United States.
- Variations: Haize, Hayzaline, Hasel, Hazell, Hazelle, Heizle, Hazelgrace, Hazelmae, Hazelmarie.
- Nicknames: Azie, Haze, Hazelnut, Hazey, Zell, Zella, Zelly.
- Namesakes: Hazel Bishop, Hazel Brannon Smith, Hazel Court.
What Does the Name Hazel Mean?
Hazel is a name meaning “the color hazel,” as well as the tree, also called “hazel” (1). Hazel is primarily given to females and is of English origin (2).
What Is the Origin of the Name Hazel?
Hazel is a derivative of the Old English word “hæsel.” It rose in popularity in the 1800s when English-speaking countries began to use it with other names for plants and arbors, such as “Rose” or “Ash.”
How Popular Is the Name Hazel?
The name “Hazel” has increased significantly in recent years. It was in the top 25 most popular for girls in the United States around 1900. At the mid-century marker, it declined in popularity but seemed to rise again in the late 90s.
Since 2017, Hazel has stayed in the top 50 names for female babies in the United States. On occasion, it has even made a surge as a boy’s name, which was the case in the first half of the 20th century.
Overall, in English-speaking countries, the popularity of the name has increased again for girls. This is especially true for Ireland (3).
How Do I Pronounce Hazel?
Hazel is commonly pronounced “HAY-zuhl” in both British and American dialects.
It is not common to mispronounce the name as “HAZZ-uhl” or any other way.
Is Hazel a Boy or Girl Name?
Hazel is most commonly a girl’s name. However, it has risen in popularity before as a male’s name and likely could do so again.
Variations of Hazel
As you would expect, a name with such a long and storied history has introduced many variations into the baby name canon. Some of those variations include:
- Haize (English)
- Hayzaline (English)
- Hasel (English)
- Hazell (English)
- Hazelle (English)
- Heizle (English)
- Hazelgrace (US English)
- Hazelmae (US English)
- Hazelmarie (US English)
Nicknames for Hazel
Along with the name variations, “Hazel” also garnered several nicknames. A few of them are:
- Azie
- Haze
- Hazelnut
- Hazey
- Zell
- Zella
- Zelly
Similar Names to Hazel
When considering names similar to “Hazel,” you can go with similar syllables, origins, or whatever you think sounds nice. A few options include:
- Alicia
- Alex
- Ashley
- Eleanor
- Iris
- Ivy
- Kara
- Luna
- Olivia
- Violetta
- Willow
Middle Names for Hazel
Hazel has been paired nicely with a variety of middle names as well. Some of those include:
- Agnes
- Brianna
- Claire
- Corinne
- Della
- Jane
- Maddison
- May
- Paige
- Victoria
Sibling Names for Hazel
There are good names to pair with Hazel for siblings, despite the gender. A few of these names include:
For a brother:
- August
- Carl
- Emrick
- Erik
- Jackson
- James
- Jamie
- Louie
- Matthew
- Patrick
For a sister:
- Adelaide
- Alexia
- Cora
- Everly
- Iris
- Jennifer
- Lucia
- Maddison
- Maggy
- Ramona
Famous People Named Hazel
There are many famous people named Hazel as well. From politicians to musicians to athletes. Some of the most prominent among them are:
- Hazel Bishop: American inventor, chemist, and entrepreneur who created long-lasting lipstick.
- Hazel Brannon Smith: American journalist, publisher, and editor.
- Hazel Court: An English actress known for her roles in early horror films.
- Hazel Dean: Actress, director, and producer of films.
- Hazel Hall: American poet and writer.
- Hazel Scott: Trinidadian jazz musician, singer, and actor.
Hazel in Popular Culture
The name Hazel has yet to see widespread use in popular culture. There are only a few standout instances of the name appearing in mass media. Some examples include:
- Hazel Aden: Character from the Canadian TV series “Degrassi: The Next Generation.”
- Hazel Charming: Character from the animated TV series “Little Charmers.”
- Hazel Flagg: The main character from the movie “Nothing Sacred.”
- Hazel Frost: Marvel Comics character. Mother of Emma Frost from “X-Men.”
- Hazel Grace Lancaster: Character from John Green’s novel The Fault in Our Stars.
- Hazel Levesque: Character from Heroes of Olympus novel series.
- Hazel: Character from the Richard Adams novel Watership Down.
- Hazel: The narrator of the comic book series Saga by Brian Vaughan.
- Hazel: Minor character from the TV show “The Umbrella Academy.”
Hazel FAQs
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the name Hazel.
Does Hazel Have Any Biblical Significance?
“Hazel” is a character in the Hebrew Bible called “Hazā’ēl.” This girl name in the bible means “God has seen.”
What Sort of Personality Does a “Hazel” Have?
Words that are associated with “Hazel” include logic, reasoning, intelligence, intuition, and grace. Hazels are spiritual and have a strong connection with the earth. It’s safe to say if symbolism is essential to you, Hazel is a great name to choose for a daughter.
Is Hazel a Pretty Name?
While it’s a matter of opinion which names are “pretty” and which are not, the name Hazel is an attractive option that appeals to nature-lovers, thanks to its associations with the tree and the greenish-brown color of hazel eyes.
