Gabriella Girl

Italian; Hebrew; Latin

Meaning

God is my strength (Hebrew); devoted to God (Latin)

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Gabriella has its roots in the Hebrew name Gavri'el, which means "God is my strength." This name is derived from the elements "gever," meaning "man" or "strong," and "El," referring to God. The name was adopted into Greek as Gabriēl, and subsequently into Latin as Gabrielis, the masculine form. The feminine form, Gabriella, emerged in Italian and other Romance languages, reflecting a common practice of feminizing male names by adding suffixes such as -ella.

Historically, the name Gabriella is associated with the archangel Gabriel, a significant figure in Judeo-Christian traditions. Gabriel appears in various biblical texts, including the Book of Daniel and the Gospel of Luke, where he serves as a messenger of God. The name gained further prominence through the Christian tradition, particularly in the Middle Ages, when saints and religious figures were often named after archangels. The name Gabriella, as a feminine variant, began to be used more widely in the late medieval period, particularly in Italy, where it became popularized through religious and cultural influences.

Culturally, the name Gabriella carries connotations of strength and divine support, resonating with its etymological roots. It has been embraced in various artistic and literary works, often symbolizing grace and resilience. The name's association with the archangel Gabriel has also imbued it with a sense of spiritual significance, making it a favored choice in religious contexts. Additionally, diminutive forms such as Gabby or Ella have emerged, reflecting affectionate or informal uses of the name, though these forms are not the primary focus of its historical significance.

Trend Summary

Gabriella has experienced a steady increase in popularity in the United States over the past few decades.

Similar Names