Meaning: Its source is Laurentius, a Latin name meaning "Man from Laurentum."

Narrative: The ancient city of Laurentum was located in present-day Italy. It probably got its name from the laurel bush, an important plant to the people of ancient times, who fashioned triumphant garlands from its branches.

Meaning: Its source is Laura, an English name meaning "The laurel shrub."

Narrative: Film director Howard Hawks popularized this form of the name by suggesting it as a stage name for the actress born Betty Jean Perske, thereafter known to the world as Lauren Bacall.