US Popularity Rank: 4692

Origin: Swiss

Meaning: Laurelled

Lars is a masculine Swiss name with Scandinavian roots and a fitting title for a crowning achievement. With Switzerland’s history as a part of the Roman empire, many popular names in the country have Latin origins. Rooted in the Latin _laurus_, Lars means "laurelled"—a reference to the ancient Greek tradition of placing a crown of laurel leaves and branches upon victors of the earliest Olympic games. Forever intertwined with the god Apollo, laurel forms the basis of the esteemed term _laureate_. By extension, Lars stands as a simplified personification of high achievement, beloved in Scandinavian countries and represented by many famous figures, including Swiss musician Lars Rainer Rüetschi.