Loraine

Loraine is an English given name derived from the French regional name Lorraine. The region of Lorraine in northeastern France has a rich history, once being an independent duchy. The name itself is thought to be derived from Lotharingia, a kingdom named after Lothair II, a grandson of Charlemagne. The adoption of place names as personal names became popular in various European cultures, and Lorraine, as a geographical identifier, eventually transitioned into a feminine given name, particularly in English-speaking countries.

Its usage as a given name gained some popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, often seen as an elegant and somewhat exotic choice due to its French origin. While not as common as some other French-derived names, it has maintained a steady, albeit moderate, presence over the decades. The spelling 'Lorraine' is more common, but 'Loraine' is a recognized variant.