[2] The usage of Dolores as a given name has its origins in the strong influence of the Roman Catholic Church in Spanish-speaking countries.

The name is a reference to Nuestra Señora de los Dolores (or La Virgen María de los Dolores), one of the many titles of Mary, Mother of Jesus, typically translated to Our Lady of Sorrows in English.

In given names, Dolores is frequently preceded by the name Maria (María Dolores), the Spanish form of Mary, or one may even bear the entirety of the title (María de los Dolores) as part of their given name.

Notable examples of such include the Spanish noblewoman Juana María de los Dolores de León Smith and the Mexican actress Dolores del Río, who was born María de los Dolores Asúnsolo López-Negrete.

Less commonly, one might use de los Dolores as part of their name, but not paired with María.