Laureen is an elaborated feminine given name, primarily used in English-speaking countries, formed by adding the suffix -een to Laura. It thus belongs to the large family of names derived from the laurel tree, a symbol of victory and honor in ancient Rome.EtymologyThe root name Laura is the feminine form of the Late Latin Laurus, meaning "laurel." Laurel leaves were used to fashion victory crowns in classical antiquity, giving the name a fortunate connotation. According to tradition, the name was also borne by a 9th-century Spanish martyr, Saint Laura, a nun said to have been martyred by being thrown into molten lead. The name gained further literary fame through Petrarch, whose sonnets to his beloved Laura set a romantic ideal.Notable BearersNotable individuals named Laureen include Laureen Harper (born 1963), wife of Canada’s 22nd Prime Minister Stephen Harper, who has been involved in charitable work and promoting the arts. Laureen Jarrett (born 1938) was a teacher and political figure in New Brunswick, Canada. Laureen Oliver is an American politician who co-founded the New York State Independence Party. In sports, Laureen Maxwell (born 2002) is a French high jumper.Cultural ContextThe -een ending gives Laureen a distinctively Irish-flavored diminutive quality, although it is not actually Irish in origin. Related variant forms include Laurene, Lora, and Laurissa. Diminutives such as Laurie, Lori, Lorie, Lorinda, Lorri, and Lorrie are commonly associated.Meaning: victor’s laurel, successOrigin: Latin from laurusType: Feminine diminutiveUsage: English, rare but recognized