Azalea
/ə.ˈzeɪ̯.li.ə/
Azalea takes its name from the flowering shrub of the genus Rhododendron. The word traces to the Greek azaleos, meaning “dry,” because the plant thrives in well-drained soil.
Botanical names became fashionable as given names during the 19th century, though Azalea remained rare until recently. It fits a broader modern trend of nature-inspired names.
Azalea ranked No. 358 in 2024 with 868 births - its highest point on record. The name has climbed rapidly since entering the top 1,000 in 2012.
What the name Azalea means
Australian rapper Iggy Azalea (born Amethyst Kelly) brought the word into pop-culture consciousness around 2013, though she uses it as a stage surname rather than a first name.
Four syllables - uh-ZAY-lee-uh - give it a flowing, feminine sound. The central stress on the second syllable keeps it from feeling too long.
Parents drawn to floral names like Lily or Rose may choose Azalea for its rarity and vivid imagery. It sounds fresh without being invented.
The azalea flower symbolises temperance and care in the Victorian language of flowers. Across East Asia, azaleas carry associations with homesickness and remembrance.
US popularity over time
Numerology and symbolism
Based on Pythagorean numerology — a traditional system linking name letters to numbers. Presented for cultural interest.
Famous people named Azalea
Azalea - similar names
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