“white, fair” — Associated with purity and brightness
Hungary origin · Unisex name
♂ 42% boys♀ 58% girls
#3991US 2023
37Births / yr
↑Rising
1.1kAll-time births
📅 Since 191300
How to pronounce Bela
BEL·uh
/ˈbɛl.ə/ · stress on BEL · 2 syllables
“white, fair”
Associated with purity and brightness · Hungary origin
What does Bela mean and where does it come from?
Bela is a name with Slavic and Hungarian origins. In Hungarian, 'béla' means 'white' or 'fair', and it is often associated with purity and brightness. In Slavic cultures, the name can also mean 'beautiful'. It is a relatively common name in Hungary and Slavic countries, and it has been used historic
Cultural significance
Bela has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hungary-speaking communities, where it reflects values of white, fair.
Peak popularity
Reached #3530 in 1913 — currently #3991 in the US.
Rising fast — up 611 spots — currently #3991 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1920–2023#3991 · Top 2.9%
1920
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#3991
37
▲ up 611 · +23% births
2022
#4602
30
▼ down 178 · -3% births
2021
#4424
31
▲ up 1636 · +63% births
2020
#6060
19
▲ up 1216 · +19% births
2015
#7276
16
▼ down 3700 · -64% births
2010
#3576
44
▲ up 1402 · +69% births
2005
#4978
26
▲ up 1542 · +63% births
2000
#6520
16
▲ up 7045 · +220% births
1995
#13565
5
▼ down 8300
1920
#5265
5
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Bela
2010Rank #3576
44
#6026
↗Rising
1920 - 202310 years
The story of Bela
Bela entered American naming records in 1913 and has been in use for over 111 years. With 1,130 total births recorded, Bela remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5265 in 1920 to #3991 in 2023. Bela is used for both genders: 58% female and 42% male.
Bela means "white, fair" — a name rooted in Hungary tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Bela?
Bela is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Bela have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Bela?
Bela originates from Hungary tradition. Hungary names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Bela?
Bela is a two-syllable name pronounced B EH1 L AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Bela trending right now?
Bela is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.
Sibling names that pair with Bela
For a sister
Bela & Ervin♡
Bela & Eloda♡
Bela & Kamill♡
Bela & Lizeht♡
For a brother
Bela & Geza♡
Bela & Ervin♡
Bela & Almos♡
Bela & Orban♡
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