Names that mean hazel have captured parents’ hearts for generations, and it’s easy to see why. There’s something magical about this nature-inspired name that connects us to ancient wisdom, natural beauty, and timeless elegance. Whether you’re drawn to the classic charm of Hazel itself or searching for unique alternatives with similar meanings, these names offer a perfect blend of tradition and contemporary appeal.
The hazel tree has been cherished across cultures for centuries, representing wisdom, protection, and inspiration. From Celtic druids who believed hazel groves held special powers to modern parents seeking names that honor nature’s beauty, the allure of hazel-inspired names continues to grow. In fact, Hazel currently ranks #19 for girls in the US as of 2024, showing just how much this charming name resonates with today’s families.
Let’s explore the rich world of names that mean hazel, from their fascinating origins to modern variations that might be perfect for your little one.
Names That Mean Hazel
Here’s a comprehensive list of beautiful names that carry the meaning of hazel or are connected to the hazel tree:
- Hazel – English origin, meaning “the hazelnut tree”
- Avellana – Spanish origin, meaning “hazelnut”
- Noisette – French origin, meaning “hazelnut”
- Aveline – French/German origin, possibly meaning “desired” or connected to hazel
- Hazelle – English origin, variant of Hazel meaning “the hazelnut tree”
- Corylus – Latin origin, scientific name for the hazel genus
- Coll – Gaelic origin, meaning “hazel grove”
- Hazelyn – Modern English creation, combining Hazel with -lyn ending
- Hazelynn – Modern English variant, meaning “hazel lake”
- Filbert – Germanic origin, meaning “very bright” but associated with hazelnuts
- Coudre – French origin, meaning “hazel grove”
- Avelino – Spanish origin, related to hazelnut
- Hazal – Modern variant of Hazel
- Noisetier – French origin, meaning “hazel tree”
- Coillte – Irish origin, meaning “woods” including hazel groves
- Hazelwood – English origin, meaning “wood of hazel trees”
- Avellino – Italian origin, meaning “from the hazel grove”
- Hazeltine – English origin, meaning “hazel valley”
- Corylia – Modern creation from Corylus
- Avellaneda – Spanish origin, meaning “hazel grove”
- Hazelbelle – Modern combination of Hazel and Belle
- Coryll – Modern variant of Coll
- Hazelton – English origin, meaning “hazel town”
- Avella – Shortened form of Avellana
- Corina – While meaning “maiden,” sometimes associated with hazel in Celtic traditions
Find more unique name options in our collection of unique girl names
Baby Names That Mean Hazel
When you’re searching for the perfect baby name with hazel connections, you want something that’ll grow beautifully with your child. These names work wonderfully from baby giggles to graduation day:
- Hazel – English origin, meaning “the hazelnut tree”
- Aveline – French origin, meaning “desired” with hazel connections
- Noisette – French origin, meaning “little nut” or “hazelnut”
- Coralie – While meaning “coral,” sometimes linked to Corylus (hazel)
- Hazelyn – Modern creation, combining Hazel with popular -lyn ending
- Coll – Gaelic origin, meaning “hazel grove”
- Avellana – Spanish origin, meaning “hazelnut”
- Hazelynn – Modern variant, meaning “hazel lake”
- Filbert – Germanic origin, associated with hazelnuts
- Corina – Latin origin, meaning “maiden” but linked to hazel in some traditions
- Avelino – Spanish origin, meaning “from the hazel grove”
- Hazelle – French-influenced variant of Hazel
- Noisetier – French origin, meaning “hazel tree”
- Corylus – Latin origin, scientific name for hazel
- Hazeltine – English origin, meaning “hazel valley”
- Avellino – Italian origin, meaning “from the hazel grove”
- Corylia – Modern feminine form of Corylus
- Hazelwood – English origin, meaning “wood of hazel trees”
- Avellaneda – Spanish origin, meaning “hazel grove”
- Coillte – Irish origin, meaning “woods” including hazel
- Hazelbelle – Modern combination meaning “beautiful hazel”
- Avella – Shortened form of Avellana
- Coryll – Modern variant of Coll
- Hazelton – English origin, meaning “hazel settlement”
- Coudre – French origin, meaning “hazel grove”
Discover more baby name inspiration in our collection of cute girl names
Girl Names That Mean Hazel
These feminine names capture the grace and wisdom associated with the hazel tree. Perfect for little girls who’ll grow into strong, wise women:
- Hazel – English origin, meaning “the hazelnut tree”
- Aveline – French origin, meaning “desired” with hazel associations
- Avellana – Spanish origin, meaning “hazelnut”
- Noisette – French origin, meaning “hazelnut”
- Hazelle – English variant, meaning “the hazelnut tree”
- Hazelyn – Modern creation, combining Hazel with -lyn
- Hazelynn – Modern variant, meaning “hazel lake”
- Corylia – Modern feminine form of Corylus
- Corina – Latin origin, meaning “maiden” with hazel connections
- Avella – Shortened Spanish form meaning “hazelnut”
- Hazeltine – English origin, meaning “hazel valley”
- Coralie – French origin, meaning “coral” but sometimes linked to hazel
- Avelina – Spanish/Italian origin, meaning “from the hazel grove”
- Hazelbelle – Modern combination meaning “beautiful hazel”
- Noelle – While meaning “Christmas,” sometimes associated with Noisette
- Hazelrose – Modern combination of Hazel and Rose
- Avellina – Italian variant meaning “little hazelnut”
- Coline – French variant of Coll, meaning “hazel grove”
- Hazelgrace – Modern combination meaning “graceful hazel”
- Avellaneda – Spanish origin, meaning “hazel grove”
- Hazelia – Modern creation from Hazel
- Corinna – Greek origin, meaning “maiden” with hazel links
- Hazelene – Modern variant of Hazel
- Avellane – French variant meaning “hazelnut”
- Hazelina – Modern feminine elaboration of Hazel
Explore more beautiful options in our flower names for girls collection
Boy Names That Mean Hazel
Who says hazel-inspired names are just for girls? These masculine options carry the same wisdom and strength symbolism:
- Hazel – English origin, historically used for boys, meaning “the hazelnut tree”
- Coll – Gaelic origin, meaning “hazel grove”
- Filbert – Germanic origin, meaning “very bright” and associated with hazelnuts
- Avelino – Spanish origin, meaning “from the hazel grove”
- Avellino – Italian origin, meaning “from the hazel grove”
- Corylus – Latin origin, scientific name for hazel genus
- Hazelton – English origin, meaning “hazel settlement”
- Hazelwood – English origin, meaning “wood of hazel trees”
- Coryllo – Modern masculine form of Corylus
- Noisetier – French origin, meaning “hazel tree”
- Coryll – Modern variant of Coll
- Avelin – French masculine form meaning “desired”
- Hazelrik – Modern combination meaning “hazel ruler”
- Coudre – French origin, meaning “hazel grove”
- Avellan – Spanish masculine form meaning “hazelnut”
- Hazelmere – English origin, meaning “hazel lake”
- Collwyn – Welsh combination meaning “hazel fair”
- Hazelby – English origin, meaning “hazel farm”
- Corwin – English origin, meaning “heart’s friend” but sometimes linked to hazel
- Avellanet – Catalan origin, meaning “little hazelnut”
- Hazelbert – Germanic combination meaning “bright hazel”
- Collton – Modern combination of Coll and -ton
- Hazeldean – English origin, meaning “hazel valley”
- Avellanus – Latin form meaning “of the hazelnut”
- Hazelford – English origin, meaning “hazel river crossing”
Find more strong boy names in our collection of strong boy names
Gender-Neutral Names That Mean Hazel
These unisex options work beautifully for any child, reflecting modern naming trends toward flexibility:
- Hazel – English origin, meaning “the hazelnut tree”
- Coll – Gaelic origin, meaning “hazel grove”
- Avery – While meaning “elf ruler,” sometimes associated with Aveline
- River – Nature name that pairs well with hazel symbolism
- Sage – Latin origin, meaning “wise one” echoing hazel’s wisdom symbolism
- Rowan – Gaelic origin, meaning “red-haired” but another tree name
- Aspen – English origin, another tree name meaning “quaking tree”
- Oakley – English origin, meaning “oak meadow”
- Briar – English origin, meaning “thorny shrub”
- Cedar – Latin origin, meaning “cedar tree”
- Cypress – Greek origin, meaning “cypress tree”
- Forest – Latin origin, meaning “woods”
- Grove – English origin, meaning “small wood”
- Maple – English origin, meaning “maple tree”
- Pine – Latin origin, meaning “pine tree”
- Reed – English origin, meaning “red-haired” or “reed plant”
- Sage – Latin origin, meaning “wise”
- Sequoia – Cherokee origin, meaning “sparrow”
- Spruce – Middle English origin, meaning “from Prussia”
- Storm – English origin, meaning “tempest”
- Vale – Latin origin, meaning “valley”
- Wilde – English origin, meaning “wild”
- Wren – English origin, meaning “small bird”
- Yarrow – English origin, meaning “rough stream”
- Zinnia – Latin origin, meaning “Zinn’s flower”
Discover more nature-inspired unisex options in our tree names for boys collection
Middle Names for Hazel
The perfect middle name can make Hazel sing! Here are beautiful options that flow wonderfully with this nature-inspired first name:
- Grace – Latin origin, meaning “God’s grace”
- Rose – Latin origin, meaning “rose flower”
- Mae – English origin, meaning “pearl”
- Claire – French origin, meaning “bright”
- Jane – Hebrew origin, meaning “God is gracious”
- Eve – Hebrew origin, meaning “living”
- Hope – English origin, meaning “hope”
- Joy – Latin origin, meaning “joy”
- Faith – Latin origin, meaning “faith”
- Belle – French origin, meaning “beautiful”
- Sage – Latin origin, meaning “wise”
- Wren – English origin, meaning “small bird”
- Fern – English origin, meaning “fern plant”
- Luna – Latin origin, meaning “moon”
- Nova – Latin origin, meaning “new star”
- Iris – Greek origin, meaning “rainbow”
- Ruby – Latin origin, meaning “red gemstone”
- Pearl – Latin origin, meaning “pearl”
- Sage – Latin origin, meaning “wise one”
- Blue – English origin, meaning “blue color”
- Dawn – English origin, meaning “daybreak”
- Snow – English origin, meaning “snow”
- Skye – Scottish origin, meaning “cloud”
- Rain – English origin, meaning “rain”
- Star – English origin, meaning “star”
Find more perfect pairings in our middle names for girls collection
The Meaning and Symbolism of Hazel
The name Hazel comes from Old English “hæsel,” directly referring to the hazelnut tree. But this simple botanical connection runs much deeper than you might expect. The hazel tree isn’t just any ordinary tree – it’s been woven into the fabric of human culture and mythology for thousands of years.
In Celtic traditions, hazel trees were considered sacred sources of wisdom and inspiration. Celtic druids believed that eating hazelnuts could grant poetic inspiration and divine knowledge. The tree was so revered that cutting down a hazel without permission was considered a serious crime in ancient Ireland. Norse mythology tells similar tales, with hazel representing wisdom and serving as a bridge between the earthly and divine realms.
The symbolism doesn’t stop at ancient times. Throughout literature and poetry, hazel has represented protection, fertility, and hidden knowledge. The flexible yet strong branches of the hazel tree have made it a symbol of adaptability and resilience – qualities many parents hope to instill in their children.
What makes hazel-inspired names so appealing today is this rich symbolic heritage combined with their natural, earthy feel. Parents are increasingly drawn to names that connect their children to nature while carrying meaningful traditions forward.
Explore more nature-inspired options with our collection of flower names for girls
Names That Mean Hazel or Hazelnut
Direct Names
Hazel remains the most popular and recognizable name in this category. This English name literally means “the hazelnut tree” and has maintained its appeal across generations. What’s wonderful about Hazel is its simplicity and immediate connection to nature, making it both easy to pronounce and remember.
Avellana offers a beautiful Spanish alternative, meaning “hazelnut.” This name has a lyrical quality that flows beautifully and provides a unique option for families wanting something less common than Hazel while maintaining the same core meaning.
Noisette is the French word for “hazelnut,” though it’s rarely used as a given name in French-speaking regions. Its musical sound and exotic feel make it an intriguing choice for parents seeking something truly distinctive.
Aveline presents another French and German option with possible links to hazel. This name has medieval charm and offers a sophisticated alternative to more common choices.
Related Names and Variations
The beauty of hazel-inspired names lies in their versatility. You’ll find creative variants like Hazelle, which adds a French feminine touch, or Hazelyn, which combines the classic Hazel with the trendy “-lyn” ending that’s so popular today. Hazal offers a more modern, streamlined version.
International versions provide even more options. Different cultures have embraced the hazel concept, creating variations that honor local linguistic traditions while maintaining the core meaning. These alternatives allow families to connect with their heritage while choosing a name that carries the wisdom and beauty associated with the hazel tree.
| Name | Origin | Meaning | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hazel | English | The hazelnut tree | HAY-zul |
| Avellana | Spanish | Hazelnut | ah-veh-LAH-nah |
| Noisette | French | Hazelnut | nwah-ZETT |
| Aveline | French/German | Possibly related to hazel | AV-uh-leen |
| Hazelle | English variant | The hazelnut tree | hay-ZELL |
Find more beautiful international options in our Spanish girl names collection
Popularity and Trends of Hazel-Inspired Names
Hazel’s popularity story reads like a classic comeback tale. The name first gained widespread attention in the late 1800s, becoming a favorite among Victorian parents who appreciated its natural charm. By the early 1900s, Hazel was riding high on the popularity charts, representing the era’s fascination with nature-inspired names.
Like many names from that period, Hazel experienced a significant decline through the mid-20th century. Parents in the 1950s and 60s gravitated toward more modern-sounding names, leaving traditional choices like Hazel to fade into the background. But here’s where the story gets interesting – Hazel began its remarkable resurgence in 1998, coinciding with a broader trend toward vintage name revivals.
The name received a significant boost from popular culture, particularly John Green’s novel “The Fault in Our Stars” and its subsequent film adaptation, which featured a beloved character named Hazel Grace Lancaster. This cultural moment helped introduce the name to a new generation of parents and cemented its place in contemporary naming trends.
Currently ranking #19 for girls in the US as of 2024, Hazel sits comfortably in the sweet spot of being popular enough to feel familiar but not so common that every classroom has three Hazels. This balance appeals to many parents who want a name that’s both distinctive and accessible.
Notable celebrities who’ve chosen Hazel for their children include:
- Julia Roberts (daughter Hazel)
- Emily Blunt and John Krasinski (daughter Hazel)
The trend extends beyond just the name Hazel itself. We’re seeing increased interest in related names and creative variations, reflecting parents’ desire to find unique twists on beloved classics.
Discover more trending choices in our collection of cute girl names
Unique and Rare Names Meaning Hazel
While Hazel dominates the spotlight, several lesser-known options offer the same beautiful meaning with added uniqueness. These rare gems provide opportunities for parents seeking something truly distinctive while maintaining that special connection to the hazel tree’s symbolism.
Corylus takes its name from the scientific term for the hazel genus. Though unusual as a given name, it offers a scholarly, botanical feel that might appeal to families with scientific backgrounds or those who appreciate Latin-inspired names.
Hazelynn and Hazelynne represent modern creative variations, combining Hazel with popular contemporary endings. These names feel fresh and current while honoring the traditional meaning.
Coll is a Gaelic name that historically referred to hazel groves. This short, strong name works beautifully as either a given name or middle name and connects directly to Celtic hazel traditions.
Interestingly, Hazel has historically been used for boys as well as girls. Records show that more than 30 boys received the name Hazel in recent years in the US, reflecting a growing trend toward gender-neutral nature names. This flexibility makes hazel-inspired names particularly appealing to modern families who appreciate names that transcend traditional gender boundaries.
For those seeking international flair, consider exploring names from cultures where hazelnuts hold special significance. Turkish, Armenian, and various European traditions offer linguistic variations that carry the same essential meaning while providing unique cultural connections.
Explore more unique options in our unique girl names collection
Middle Names That Pair Well with Hazel
Choosing the perfect middle name for Hazel (or any hazel-inspired first name) involves balancing sound, meaning, and personal significance. The beauty of Hazel lies in its versatility – it pairs beautifully with everything from classic traditional names to bold contemporary choices.
Classic and Vintage Pairings
Traditional middle names create timeless combinations that feel both elegant and grounded:
- Hazel Margaret – combines nature with pearl-like beauty
- Hazel Eleanor – merges woodland charm with royal elegance
- Hazel Josephine – blends earthy simplicity with sophisticated length
- Hazel Catherine – pairs natural beauty with classic grace
- Hazel Elizabeth – creates a regal, traditional combination
These pairings work because they balance Hazel’s casual, nature-inspired feel with more formal traditional names, creating combinations that work well in both childhood and professional settings.
Nature-Inspired Combinations
Double nature names create cohesive, earthy combinations that celebrate the natural world:
- Hazel Fern – woodland plants together
- Hazel Luna – earth meets sky
- Hazel Sienna – natural colors combined
- Hazel Eden – garden paradise theme
- Hazel Willow – two beloved trees united
These combinations appeal to parents who want their child’s name to reflect environmental values and natural beauty.
Modern and Trendy Options
Contemporary middle names give Hazel a fresh, current feel:
- Hazel Kai – short and punchy
- Hazel Rae – simple and sweet
- Hazel Indigo – color meets nature
- Hazel Phoenix – nature meets mythology
- Hazel Nova – earthbound meets cosmic
The key to successful middle name pairing lies in considering syllable flow and overall rhythm. Single-syllable middle names create crisp, clean combinations, while longer middle names add flowing musicality.
Find more beautiful pairing ideas in our middle names for girls collection
Nicknames and Variations
One of Hazel’s greatest strengths is its nickname potential. The name offers several adorable shortened versions that work for different personality types and life stages:
Popular nicknames include:
- Haze – cool and modern
- Hazie – playful and sweet
- Zellie – unique and spunky
- Hazy – dreamy and artistic
Each nickname captures a different aspect of the name’s personality. Haze feels contemporary and edgy, perfect for a child who marches to their own beat. Hazie brings out the name’s sweet, approachable side. Zellie offers something completely unexpected – a nickname that doesn’t sound obviously connected to Hazel, giving children options as they grow.
International variations add even more possibilities. In different languages and cultures, hazel-inspired names take on unique forms that might appeal to families with diverse backgrounds or those simply seeking something distinctive.
Creative parents have also developed their own nickname innovations, playing with sounds and syllables to create personalized pet names that reflect their child’s unique personality and family dynamics.
Discover more nickname inspiration in our flower nicknames collection
Cultural and Historical Facts about Hazel
The hazel tree’s cultural significance extends far beyond its role as a name inspiration. Understanding this rich history helps appreciate why hazel-inspired names carry such depth and meaning.
In Celtic mythology, hazel trees were considered sacred sources of wisdom. The Celts believed that salmon who ate hazelnuts that fell into sacred pools gained all the world’s knowledge. This connection between hazel and wisdom explains why many parents are drawn to these names – they’re essentially wishing wisdom upon their children.
Norse traditions held similar beliefs about hazel’s magical properties. The god Odin carried a hazel staff, and hazel wood was used for divination and protection. Viking explorers often carried hazel twigs, believing they would guide them safely home.
The tree appears frequently in European folklore as a symbol of protection and hidden knowledge. Hazel groves were considered places where the veil between worlds was thin, where inspiration and divine messages could be received.
In art and literature, hazel has been celebrated for centuries. Poets have written about hazel’s beauty and symbolism, while artists have depicted hazel groves as places of mystery and enchantment. This artistic heritage adds layers of cultural richness to hazel-inspired names.
Family crests and coats of arms often feature hazel branches or nuts, indicating the tree’s importance in heraldic traditions. Families with hazel symbols typically emphasized values like wisdom, protection, and connection to the land.
These cultural connections make hazel-inspired names particularly meaningful for families who value tradition, wisdom, and natural beauty. The name carries forward thousands of years of positive associations and symbolic significance.
Learn about more culturally rich names in our Celtic girl names collection
Choosing the Perfect Hazel-Inspired Name
Selecting the right hazel-inspired name involves balancing several important factors. The beauty of this name family is that it offers options for different tastes, family traditions, and personal preferences.
Sound and flow should be your first consideration. Say potential names out loud with your last name and any planned middle names. Pay attention to how the syllables work together and whether the combination feels natural and pleasing to the ear.
Meaning and symbolism matter deeply to many families. While all hazel-inspired names share core connections to wisdom and nature, some carry additional cultural or linguistic significance that might resonate with your family’s heritage or values.
Family heritage plays a role worth exploring. If you have Celtic, Germanic, or other European ancestry, certain variations might feel more connected to your family’s story. This connection can make the name choice feel more personal and meaningful.
Practical considerations shouldn’t be overlooked. Think about how the name will work throughout your child’s life – from playground to boardroom. Will it be easy to pronounce and spell? Does it create pleasant initials? How does it sound with potential sibling names?
Personal resonance ultimately matters most. The right name will feel right to you. Trust your instincts about which variation speaks to your heart and imagination.
Some parents find it helpful to live with potential names for a while, imagining calling their child by each option and seeing which feels most natural and exciting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hazel a unisex name?
While Hazel is predominantly used for girls today, it has historically been given to boys as well. Recent data shows that more than 30 boys received the name Hazel in a single year in the US, reflecting growing acceptance of nature names across gender lines. The name’s connection to strength and wisdom makes it appealing for children of any gender.
What are some boy names related to hazel?
Traditional masculine options include Hazleton (meaning “hazel town”), Hazel itself (historically masculine), and Coll (Gaelic for hazel grove). Modern parents might also consider Corylus (the scientific name for hazel) or create their own masculine variations.
Are there famous people named Hazel?
Yes! Notable Hazels include actress Hazel Court, jazz musician Hazel Scott, and Civil Rights activist Hazel Massery. More recently, celebrity children like Julia Roberts’ daughter Hazel and Emily Blunt’s daughter Hazel have brought contemporary attention to the name.
How has the popularity of Hazel changed over time?
Hazel peaked in popularity during the late 1800s and early 1900s, then declined significantly through the mid-20th century. Since 1998, it has experienced a remarkable comeback, reaching #19 for girls in the US by 2024. This resurgence reflects broader trends toward vintage name revivals and nature-inspired choices.
Final Thoughts
Names that mean hazel offer a beautiful blend of natural charm, historical depth, and contemporary appeal. Whether you choose the classic elegance of Hazel itself, the exotic flair of Avellana, or create your own unique variation, you’re selecting a name rich with positive symbolism and cultural significance.
The enduring appeal of hazel-inspired names lies in their versatility and meaning. They work equally well for families seeking traditional values or contemporary style, for those honoring cultural heritage or embracing universal themes of wisdom and natural beauty. With their connection to protection, inspiration, and growth, these names offer wonderful wishes for any child’s future.
As you consider your options, remember that the perfect name is one that resonates with your heart and reflects your hopes for your child. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless appeal of Hazel or excited by unique alternatives, you’re choosing a name that connects your little one to centuries of wisdom, beauty, and natural wonder.
Continue exploring beautiful name options in our comprehensive traditional girl names collection
Greetings, I’m Alex – an expert in the art of naming teams, groups or brands, and businesses. With years of experience as a consultant for some of the most recognized companies out there, I want to pass on my knowledge and share tips that will help you craft an unforgettable name for your project through TeamGroupNames.Com!