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Nella Girl

Popularity: #889 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationNEL-uh / /ˈnɛl.ə/

Italian; Latin

Meaning

Italian: bright; Latin: horn

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Nella is derived from the Italian diminutive of the name Antonella, which itself is a diminutive form of the name Antonio, originating from the Latin name Antonius. The etymology of Antonius is somewhat uncertain, but it is often associated with the meaning 'priceless' or 'invaluable.' The name Nella thus carries a connotation of value and worth, reflecting its roots in Latin and Italian linguistic traditions. The transition of the name into English likely occurred through the influence of Italian culture and immigration, particularly during the 19th and 20th centuries, when Italian names began to gain traction in English-speaking countries.

Historically, the name Nella has been associated with various cultural figures and has appeared in literature and art. While it may not have a singular historical milestone akin to more prominent names, its connection to Antonella and Antonio links it to a rich tapestry of historical figures, including saints and notable individuals throughout European history. The name Antonio has been borne by various saints, including Saint Anthony of Padua, a significant figure in Christian hagiography from the 13th century, which adds a layer of spiritual significance to the name Nella through its etymological lineage.

Culturally, Nella resonates with themes of femininity and grace, often evoking images of nurturing and strength. The name has been embraced in various artistic expressions, including music and literature, where it symbolizes beauty and resilience. The diminutive form Nella also reflects a broader tradition in many cultures of using affectionate or endearing forms of names, which can enhance personal connections. Overall, Nella embodies a blend of linguistic heritage and cultural significance, making it a name with deep historical roots.

Trend Summary

Nella has seen a gradual increase in popularity in the United States in recent years.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Nell
  • Nellie

International Variants

  • Nélia (Portuguese)
  • Nella (Dutch)

Famous people named Nella

Nella Larsen is a novelist best known for Quicksand, Passing, and her contributions to the Harlem Renaissance.

Nella Flanders is a notable figure in the field of education best known for her work in early childhood development.

Fictional characters named Nella

Nella is a fictional character from the novel The Last Thing He Told Me. She is the teenage daughter of the protagonist, navigating the mystery surrounding her father's disappearance.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Nella was first seen in the United States in 1880. Nella has ranked as high as #808 nationally, which occurred in 1927, and has been most popular in Kentucky, Alabama, California, Illinois, and Tennessee. In the past 5 years the name Nella has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Nella (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 9
60%
FL 6
40%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188010
188119
188211
18836
188419
188510
188611
188712
188817
188910
18909
189115
189218
189316
189419
189518
189614
189717
189811
189910
190014
190113
190215
190320
190414
190522
190612
190722
190826
190918
191034
191118
191244
191336
191444
191548
191657
191747
191874
191961
192057
192179
192274
192358
192470
192574
192658
192781
192857
192948
193068
193156
193266
193358
193481
193559
193665
193768
193852
193946
194061
194154
194238
194343
194438
194533
194638
194738
194828
194941
195031
195139
195237
195333
195432
195523
195625
195722
195824
195919
196026
196120
196225
196312
196425
196518
196614
196716
196811
196917
197011
197110
19725
19739
197411
197510
197615
197810
19797
19819
19825
19835
19865
19897
19926
19977
19995
20016
200212
200415
200512
200625
200722
200832
200948
201039
201139
201258
201351
201463
201560
201658
201775
201880
201974
202066
202172
202281
202361
202461