📅 Since 1880🏆 68 years in top 1000.55% of births at peak
How to pronounce Ella
EL·uh
/ˈɛl.ə/ · stress on EL · 2 syllables
“fairy maiden”
English origin · Girl name
What does Ella mean and where does it come from?
The name Ella is derived from the Germanic word 'ali' meaning 'all' or 'completely'. It gained popularity in the 19th century as a diminutive of names like Eleanor and Ellen but has become a standalone name. Notably, singer Ella Fitzgerald is an iconic bearer of the name. It has variations in differ
Cultural significance
Ella has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of fairy maiden.
Declining — down 7 spots — currently #32 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#32 · Top 0.02%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#32
5,659
▼ down 7 · -10% births
2022
#25
6,284
▼ down 9 · -11% births
2021
#16
7,037
▼ down 1 · -4% births
2020
#15
7,303
▲ up 3 · -8% births
2015
#18
7,902
▼ down 5 · -20% births
2010
#13
9,876
▲ up 10 · +9% births
2005
#23
9,065
▲ up 241 · +642% births
2000
#264
1,222
▲ up 424 · +295% births
1995
#688
309
▲ up 147 · +31% births
1990
#835
235
▲ up 194 · +61% births
1985
#1029
146
▼ down 148 · -16% births
1980
#881
174
▼ down 109 · -5% births
1975
#772
183
▼ down 208 · -44% births
1970
#564
324
▼ down 135 · -32% births
1965
#429
478
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Ella
2010Rank #13
9,876
#262
↗Rising
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Ella
Ella has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #12 in 2011. More than 321,235 babies have been named Ella since 1880. Ella shows a classic revival pattern — popular in the 1880s, declining mid-century, then surging back in recent decades. Ella is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Ella means "fairy maiden" — a name rooted in English 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 Ella?
Ella is currently ranked #32 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Ella?
Ella originates from English tradition. English 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 Ella?
Ella is a two-syllable name pronounced EH1 L AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Ella more of a girl or boy name?
Ella is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Sibling names that pair with Ella
For a sister
Ella & Harper♡
Ella & Isla♡
Ella & Genesis♡
Ella & Myles♡
For a brother
Ella & Miles♡
Ella & Angel♡
Ella & Brooks♡
Ella & Bennett♡
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