What does Cilla mean and where does it come from?
Cilla is a name of Spanish origin, derived from 'Cilicia', which refers to a historical region in ancient Anatolia. In some cases, Cilla has also been considered a diminutive of names such as Priscilla. It has become popular in several Spanish-speaking countries. The name has gained recognition due
Cultural significance
Cilla has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Spain-speaking communities, where it reflects values of bitter; the one who is bitter.
Peak popularity
Reached #986 in 1882 — currently #1327 in the US.
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Related Reading
Spain-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Cilla?
Cilla works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Cilla Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Cilla Rose
Floral · soft ending
Cilla Mae
Sweet · timeless
Cilla Claire
French influence · crisp
Cilla Jane
Literary · strong
Cilla Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Cilla right now?
Holding steady — currently #1327 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1327 | 873 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1332 | 853 | ▲ up 5 · +4% births |
| 2021 | #1337 | 823 | — |
The story of Cilla
Cilla has been a beloved American name for over 142 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1882. With 37 total births recorded, Cilla remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1337 in 2021 to #1327 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Cilla in 1882:
Cilla by decade
Cilla peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 5 | |
| 1900s | 7 | |
| 1910s | 5 | |
| 1920s | 5 | |
| 1940s ★ | 10 | |
| 2000s | 5 | |
💎Cilla has only 37 total recorded births since 1882 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Cilla?
What names sound and feel like Cilla?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Cilla also consider these
How is Cilla written in other languages?
What are the boy versions of Cilla?
Common questions about the name Cilla
What does the name Cilla mean?
Cilla means "Bitter; the one who is bitter" — a name rooted in Spain 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 Cilla?
Cilla is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Cilla?
Cilla originates from Spain tradition. Spain names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Cilla a common or rare name?
Cilla is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Cilla?
Cilla naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.