Lois

Meaning & origin

Lois is a name with deep roots, appearing in the New Testament as Timothy's grandmother. Its meaning is uncertain, with suggestions linking it to the Greek word for 'better' or a type of plant. The name entered English usage after the Protestant Reformation and remained a steady, if uncommon, choice for centuries. Its real moment in the American spotlight came in the early 20th century. Lois reached its peak popularity in 1929, when it was a fashionable choice for baby girls. Like many names from that era, it gradually declined through the mid-century, but the name has been showing signs of a quiet revival. Since 2004, its usage has been on the rise, though it remains far below its peak. In 2025, the name ranked 1666th in the United States, given to 1 in every 12,962 baby girls. The most recent data shows it is most popular in Tennessee, Washington, and North Carolina. First recorded in the United States in 1880, Lois carries the charm of a vintage name that has cycled back into favor for modern parents seeking something both traditional and uncommon.

Lois appears in the New Testament as the grandmother of Timothy, where it is spelled Λωΐς (Lōïs). The exact etymology is debated; it may come from the Greek 'loion', meaning 'better', or it could be related to the name of a plant. The name was taken up by English speakers after the Reformation, alongside other Biblical names, and saw a surge in popularity in the early 20th century.