Delores

Meaning of Delores

Delores is a feminine name of Spanish origin, stemming from the title María de los Dolores—“Mary of Sorrows”—and adopted into English usage with the pronunciation duh-LAWR-iss (/dəˈlɔːrɪs/) in both British and American contexts. It rose to prominence in North America between the 1930s and the 1960s, regularly featuring in the top 200 before settling into vintage status; by 2024 it ranked just outside the top 900, with only nine newborns bearing the name. The name’s literal meaning of “sorrows” lends it a subtle solemnity, while its mid-century popularity evokes an old-world charm that appeals to parents seeking a blend of tradition and distinction. Although less common today, Delores occasionally resurfaces in literature and film—recalling classic Hollywood actresses and literary figures—underscoring its enduring, if understated, cultural resonance.