What does Clela mean and where does it come from?
Clela is a variant of the name Clara, derived from the Latin 'Clarissimus', which means bright or clear. While less common than its root name, Clela evokes the essence of clarity and fame. The name is often associated with feminine elegance and nobility. It has been used in various regions of Italy.
Cultural significance
Clela has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Italy-speaking communities, where it reflects values of italian.
Peak popularity
Reached #1411 in 1895 — currently #1713 in the US.
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Related Reading
Italy-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Clela?
Clela works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Clela Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Clela Rose
Floral · soft ending
Clela Mae
Sweet · timeless
Clela Claire
French influence · crisp
Clela Jane
Literary · strong
Clela Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Clela right now?
Holding steady — currently #1713 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1713 | 487 | ▲ up 5 · +4% births |
| 2022 | #1718 | 467 | ▲ up 5 · +7% births |
| 2021 | #1723 | 437 | ▲ up 2763 · +8640% births |
| 1940 | #4486 | 5 | ▼ down 1057 · -37% births |
| 1930 | #3429 | 8 | ▼ down 435 · -27% births |
| 1925 | #2994 | 11 | ▲ up 672 · +38% births |
| 1920 | #3666 | 8 | ▼ down 1074 · -27% births |
| 1915 | #2592 | 11 | ▼ down 758 · +83% births |
| 1905 | #1834 | 6 | ▼ down 423 · -14% births |
| 1895 | #1411 | 7 | — |
The story of Clela
Clela has been a beloved American name for over 131 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1893. With 287 total births recorded, Clela remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #1411 in 1895, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1713 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Clela in 1895:
Clela by decade
Clela peaked in the 1890s. See all 1890s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 12 | |
| 1900s | 29 | |
| 1910s | 75 | |
| 1920s ★ | 108 | |
| 1930s | 47 | |
| 1940s | 11 | |
| 1960s | 5 | |
💎Clela has only 287 total recorded births since 1893 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Clela?
What names sound and feel like Clela?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Clela also consider these
Common questions about the name Clela
What does the name Clela mean?
Clela means "Italian" — a name rooted in Italy 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 Clela?
Clela 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 Clela?
Clela originates from Italy tradition. Italy names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Clela a common or rare name?
Clela is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Clela?
Clela 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.