Lars
Fact sheet
- Name
- Lars
- Gender
- Boy name
- Syllables
- 1
Lars is a Scandinavian abbreviation of the Latin name Laurentius. This name was originally a Roman surname that carries the meaning "the one from (the city of) Laurentum" or "the man from Laurentum."
What does the name Lars mean?
Lars is a Scandinavian short form of the Latin Laurentius. This name is associated with the meanings "the man from Laurentum" or "the laurel-crowned." Additionally, Laurentius has been popularly linked to the Latin word laurus (laurel, laurel wreath). Therefore, a common interpretation of the name Lars is also "the laurel-crowned." In Germany, Lars has been common since the mid-20th century and is considered a popular, timeless boy's name. A common nickname is Lasse, which is often used as an independent first name in both Scandinavia and Germany.
Where does the name Lars come from?
The name Lars has its origins in Latin and means "the man from Laurentum" or "the laurel-crowned." It is widespread in various languages, including Danish, German, Etruscan, Nordic, Norwegian, Swedish, and Scandinavian.
How do you pronounce Lars?
The pronunciation of Lars is monosyllabic and clear. In German, it is typically pronounced as "Lars" [laːʁs]. The long A sounds open and wide, while the combination of "r" and "s" at the end creates a distinctive finish. These features give the name Lars a straightforward and powerful presence – it appears reduced, present, and clearly defined.
When is the name day of Lars?
Since Lars is a form of Laurentius, it has several name days. The most significant of these are celebrated on July 21 (Laurentius of Rome) and August 10 (Laurentius of Brindisi).
Popularity
In Germany, Lars is among the very popular first names. Currently, it ranks 156th on the list of the most common male baby names. Its highest ranking was in 1979, when it reached 17th place. In the last ten years, Lars has been given as a first name approximately 5,400 times, placing it 151st in the ten-year statistics. Between 2010 and 2024, it ranks 135th.
Nicknames & pet names
Lachd / Lachs / Lails / Lala / Lalle / Lardi / Lari / Larifari / Lars der kleine Eisbär / Lars vom Mars / Larsariono / Larsell / Larsen / Larsi / Larsi-Hasi / Larsibär / Larsili / Larsimoto / Larso / Larsopoulous / Larsowizc / Larsson / LarsVomMars / Lartz / Lasi / Lasse / Lassie / Lassiter / Lasso / Lausi / Lesse / Lorschi / Lurs / Lärse / Lärsli / Lärsu / Läsch / Läse / Lässy / Mars
Similar first names
Famous people
- Bürger Lars Dietrich (German musician, comedian, and actor)
- Lars Amble (actor from Sweden)
- Lars Bender (footballer)
- Lars Bergendahl (Norwegian skier)
- Lars Berger (Norwegian biathlete)
- Lars Bergström (Swedish physicist)
- Lars Björn (Swedish ice hockey player)
- Lars Bo (American artist)
- Lars Bom (Danish actor)
- Lars Bystøl (Norwegian ski jumper)
- Lars Christiansen (former Danish handball player)
- Lars the little polar bear (children's book/animated character by Hans de Beer)
- Lars Ehrich (ice hockey player)
- Lars Figura (German sprinter)
- Lars Gerike (German ice hockey player)
- Lars Hedegaard (Danish writer)
- Lars Hinneburg (German swimmer)
- Lars Hojer (footballer from Denmark)
- Lars Kaufmann (handball player)
- Lars Krismes (entertainer)
Frequently asked questions about the name Lars
What does the name Lars mean?
The name Lars has Latin roots and means 'the man from Laurentum' or 'the laurel-crowned.' It is closely associated with the name Laurentius.
Is Lars a typical boy's name?
Yes, Lars is a traditional boy's name that is common in many Scandinavian and German families.
What nicknames are there for Lars?
There are a variety of creative nicknames for Lars, including Lasse, Lari, Larsibär, and Lärsli, which are often used affectionately.
How is the name Lars pronounced?
Lars is usually pronounced in German as 'Lars,' with the 'a' sounding short and the name being very clear and distinct.