Mela Girl
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: MEL-uh //ˈmɛlə//
Origin: Italian; Greek
Meaning: Italian: 'apple'; Greek: 'honey'
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Mela has roots in several linguistic traditions, primarily deriving from the Greek word "melas," meaning "black" or "dark." This term has influenced various languages, including Latin, where it appears as "melas" in the context of color. The name has also been associated with the Latin word "mela," meaning "apple," which has contributed to its usage in different cultures.
The transition of Mela into English likely occurred through the influence of Latin during the medieval period, as Latin was the scholarly language of Europe and often served as a bridge for names and terms from ancient languages into vernacular use. Historically, the name Mela does not have prominent figures in biblical texts or significant historical milestones directly tied to it.
However, it can be linked to various saints and religious figures in the Christian tradition, particularly in regions where Latin was prevalent. The name may have been adopted in ecclesiastical contexts, reflecting the common practice of using names with positive connotations, such as those associated with nature or virtue.
The spread of Christianity throughout Europe during the early Middle Ages likely facilitated the integration of names like Mela into local cultures. Culturally, Mela carries associations with beauty and nature, particularly through its connection to the apple, a symbol of knowledge and temptation in various mythologies and religious texts.
This duality of meaning—both dark and sweet—has allowed the name to resonate in different contexts. In some cultures, diminutive forms or variations of Mela, such as Melina, have emerged, further enriching its cultural significance.
Overall, Mela embodies a blend of linguistic heritage and cultural symbolism that has contributed to its endurance across different eras.
Famous people named Mela
Mela Lee is a voice actress best known for her roles in the video games League of Legends, Final Fantasy XIV, and the animated series The Loud House.
Mela Koteluk is a singer-songwriter best known for her albums Spadochron and Migracje.
Sibling suggestions
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Mela was first seen in the United States in 1905.
Mela has ranked as high as #1317 nationally, which occurred in 2019, and has been most popular in California, New York, and Florida.
In the past 5 years the name Mela has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Mela (2022)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| CA | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1905 | 5 |
| 1914 | 6 |
| 1915 | 9 |
| 1916 | 8 |
| 1918 | 9 |
| 1919 | 10 |
| 1920 | 7 |
| 1921 | 9 |
| 1922 | 10 |
| 1923 | 5 |
| 1924 | 7 |
| 1925 | 6 |
| 1926 | 8 |
| 1927 | 15 |
| 1928 | 13 |
| 1929 | 9 |
| 1930 | 8 |
| 1931 | 5 |
| 1932 | 13 |
| 1933 | 8 |
| 1934 | 14 |
| 1940 | 6 |
| 1941 | 5 |
| 1944 | 6 |
| 1946 | 6 |
| 1947 | 8 |
| 1950 | 5 |
| 1951 | 7 |
| 1953 | 11 |
| 1954 | 10 |
| 1955 | 9 |
| 1956 | 5 |
| 1958 | 6 |
| 1959 | 11 |
| 1962 | 7 |
| 1964 | 5 |
| 1966 | 5 |
| 1969 | 5 |
| 1970 | 7 |
| 1973 | 5 |
| 1975 | 5 |
| 1976 | 5 |
| 1977 | 6 |
| 1980 | 6 |
| 1983 | 6 |
| 1988 | 5 |
| 1991 | 5 |
| 1998 | 8 |
| 1999 | 6 |
| 2002 | 8 |
| 2003 | 7 |
| 2004 | 12 |
| 2005 | 13 |
| 2006 | 24 |
| 2007 | 23 |
| 2008 | 20 |
| 2009 | 15 |
| 2010 | 18 |
| 2011 | 27 |
| 2012 | 29 |
| 2013 | 31 |
| 2014 | 38 |
| 2015 | 37 |
| 2016 | 32 |
| 2017 | 31 |
| 2018 | 40 |
| 2019 | 55 |
| 2020 | 48 |
| 2021 | 33 |
| 2022 | 32 |
| 2023 | 27 |
| 2024 | 23 |