What Does the Name Hazel Mean?
Hazel comes from the Old English haesel, the name of the hazel tree and its edible nut. It is also the name of the warm golden-brown eye color. The name carries earthy, natural associations of warmth and growth.
The Origin & History of Hazel
Hazel was popular in the Victorian era, when nature and plant names were fashionable. It faded for much of the 20th century before a strong revival in the 2010s and 2020s. Celebrity parents helped return it to the spotlight, and it is now firmly back in style.
Personality & Traits
Hazel feels cozy, wholesome, and gently vintage, with a grounded natural charm. Its soft sound and earthy meaning suggest warmth and calm. The name reads as sweet, sincere, and down-to-earth.
Famous People Named Hazel
Celebrity daughters named Hazel include the child of actors Emily Blunt and John Krasinski. Hazel Grace Lancaster is the heroine of John Green's novel The Fault in Our Stars. The name was also common among Victorian and early-20th-century women.
Nicknames & Variations
Common nicknames include Haze, Hazie, and Zelly. Related nature names and spellings include Hazelle and Hazal.
Is Hazel a Good Name in 2026?
Hazel is a charming, on-trend nature name that blends vintage warmth with modern freshness. Its short, cozy form looks lovely on personalized jewelry. It suits parents who love earthy, wholesome names with a touch of nostalgia.