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Lola

Girl name · 1,059 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Lola: 1,059 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 85 births in 2015.

Lola began as an affectionate Spanish diminutive for Dolores, which itself comes from the Spanish title María de los Dolores, meaning "Mary of Sorrows." Despite this somber origin, the name has developed a lively, glamorous reputation, largely thanks to Lola Montez, the 19th-century Irish-born dancer and courtesan who became a celebrated figure across Europe and Australia. The name also appears in popular culture through the classic 1950s song "Whatever Lola Wants," and more recently as a character in the musical *Kinky Boots*. While Lola has no direct Scottish place connections, it shares its root with the town of Los Dolores in Mexico. It remains a popular choice in Scotland for its spirited, stylish feel.