Lorelei
Luring rock on the Rhine — a girl name of German origin
Popularity of Lorelei in the United States
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Meaning & Origin of Lorelei
Lorelei is the traditional German spelling referring to the legendary rock on the Rhine River where, according to folklore, a beautiful siren sang enchanting songs that lured sailors to shipwreck on the dangerous currents below. Heinrich Heine's famous 1824 poem "Die Loreley" cemented the legend in German romantic literature, and the name has since traveled internationally, admired for its lyrical sound and mysterious, watery symbolism. It offers a more classic, European alternative to the Americanized "Lorelai" spelling.
Lorelei Around the World
Lorelei is used in 2 languages worldwide, with 9+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
Nicknames for Lorelei
Famous People Named Lorelei
- Lorelei Linklater — American actress, daughter of director Richard Linklater
- Loreley — the mythical Rhine siren of German legend
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Sibling Name Ideas for Lorelei
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Lorelei mean?
Lorelei is a girl name of German origin meaning "Luring rock on the Rhine." Lorelei is the traditional German spelling referring to the legendary rock on the Rhine River where, according to folklore, a beautiful siren sang enchanting songs that lured sailors to shipwreck on the dangerous currents below. Heinrich Heine's famous 1824 poem "Die Loreley" cemented the legend in German romantic literature, and the name has since traveled internationally, admired for its lyrical sound and mysterious, watery symbolism.
How do you pronounce Lorelei?
Lorelei is pronounced LOR-uh-lye. Common variations include Lorelai, Loreley, Lorilee.
Is Lorelei a girl name?
Yes, Lorelei is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Lori, Lore, Ellie.
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