Mela

“Apple” — Associated with nature and freshness

Italy origin · Girl name

♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls

#4950US 2023

27Births / yr

↓Falling

870All-time births

📅 Since 190500

What does Mela mean and where does it come from?

Mela is of Italian origin meaning 'apple' and is often associated with nature and freshness. It can also be a diminutive for names like Amelia. In Spain and Latin American countries, Mela could be viewed as a diminutive or short form of names that start with Mel, such as Melania. It is relatively ra

Cultural significance

Mela has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Italy-speaking communities, where it reflects values of apple.

Peak popularity

Reached #2216 in 1905 — currently #4950 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Mela?

Mela works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Mela Grace

How popular is Mela right now?

Falling — down 517 spots — currently #4950 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1905–2023#4950 · Top 3.7%

1925

1930

1940

1950

1955

1970

1975

1980

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#4950	27	▼ down 517 · -16% births
2022	#4433	32	▼ down 134 · -3% births
2021	#4299	33	▼ down 1093 · -31% births
2020	#3206	48	▲ up 790 · +30% births
2015	#3996	37	▲ up 2942 · +106% births
2010	#6938	18	▲ up 1421 · +38% births
2005	#8359	13	▲ up 844 · +117% births
1980	#9203	6	▲ up 18 · +20% births
1975	#9221	5	▼ down 2745 · -29% births
1970	#6476	7	▼ down 2329 · -22% births
1955	#4147	9	▲ up 1333 · +80% births
1950	#5480	5	▼ down 1467 · -17% births
1940	#4013	6	▼ down 527 · -25% births
1930	#3486	8	▲ up 1078 · +33% births
1925	#4564	6	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Mela

Best Year1905Rank #2216

Peak Count48

Average Rank#5119

Current Trend↘Falling

Data Range1905 - 202318 years

The story of Mela

Mela entered American naming records in 1905 and has been in use for over 119 years. With 870 total births recorded, Mela remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #2216 in 1905, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #4950 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Mela in 1905:

Mary Helen Margaret Anna Ruth

Mela by decade

Mela peaked in the 1900s. See all 1900s names →

Decade	Births
1900s	5
1910s	42
1920s	89
1930s	48
1940s	31
1950s	64
1960s	22
1970s	28
1980s	17
1990s	19
2000s	122
2010s ★	335
2020s	48

💎Mela has only 870 total recorded births since 1905 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Mela?

Common

MelMelieMely

What names sound and feel like Mela?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Mela also consider these

Meela

India · Hindi

Bela

Hungary · white, fair

Xela

Guatemala · the name of

Nela

Croatia · the bright one

Sela

Hebrew · סֵלָע, meaning 'rock'

American · Pure, clear

Common questions about the name Mela

What does the name Mela mean?

Mela means "Apple" — 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 Mela?

Mela 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 Mela?

Mela 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 Mela a common or rare name?

Mela 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 Mela?

Studies on name perception suggest that Mela 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.