What does Ela mean and where does it come from?
Ela has multiple origins and meanings. In Turkish, it refers to 'hazel' or 'birch tree', symbolizing nature and fertility. In Hebrew, it means 'oak tree', which is associated with strength and endurance. The name Ela is recognized in various cultures and often used as a standalone name or as a short
Cultural significance
Ela has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Turkey-speaking communities, where it reflects values of hazel, birch tree.
Peak popularity
Reached #957 in 1903 — currently #1562 in the US.
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Related Reading
Turkey-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Ela?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Ela?
Ela works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Ela Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Ela Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Ela Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Ela Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Ela Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Ela Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Ela right now?
Rising fast — up 161 spots — currently #1562 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #1562 | 135 | ▲ up 161 · +14% births |
| 2024 | #1723 | 118 | ▲ up 103 · +7% births |
| 2023 | #1826 | 110 | ▲ up 150 · +11% births |
| 2022 | #1976 | 99 | ▼ down 234 · -16% births |
| 2021 | #1742 | 118 | ▼ down 43 · -1% births |
| 2020 | #1699 | 119 | ▲ up 298 · +20% births |
| 2015 | #1997 | 99 | ▼ down 234 · -15% births |
| 2010 | #1763 | 117 | ▲ up 535 · +50% births |
| 2005 | #2298 | 78 | ▲ up 4881 · +457% births |
| 2000 | #7179 | 14 | ▲ up 4654 · +133% births |
| 1995 | #11833 | 6 | ▼ down 2552 · -25% births |
| 1990 | #9281 | 8 | ▼ down 128 · +60% births |
| 1975 | #9153 | 5 | ▼ down 2682 |
| 1960 | #6471 | 5 | ▼ down 2985 · -29% births |
| 1935 | #3486 | 7 | — |
The story of Ela
Ela has been a beloved American name for over 137 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1887. With 2,262 total births recorded, Ela remains relatively uncommon.
Names that peaked alongside Ela in 1903:
Ela by decade
Ela peaked in the 1900s. See all 1900s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 19 | |
| 1890s | 50 | |
| 1900s | 62 | |
| 1910s | 76 | |
| 1920s | 88 | |
| 1930s | 39 | |
| 1950s | 6 | |
| 1960s | 18 | |
| 1970s | 16 | |
| 1980s | 24 | |
| 1990s | 76 | |
| 2000s | 520 | |
| 2010s ★ | 1,149 | |
| 2020s | 372 | |
💎With 2,262 total births, Ela is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Ela?
What names sound and feel like Ela?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Ela also consider these
Common questions about the name Ela
What does the name Ela mean?
Ela means "hazel, birch tree" — a name rooted in Turkey 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 Ela?
Ela is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Ela?
Ela originates from Turkey tradition. Turkey names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Ela a common or rare name?
Ela is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What personality traits are associated with the name Ela?
Studies on name perception suggest that Ela is often associated with balance and approachability. Of course, personality is shaped by experience, not a name — but the perception can influence first impressions throughout life.