Neala

“Irish” — Associated with qualities of strength and nobility

Ireland origin · Girl name

♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls

#14647US 2023

6Births / yr

↓Falling

551All-time births

📅 Since 193800

What does Neala mean and where does it come from?

Neala is an anglicized form of the Irish name 'Niamh', and it is often associated with qualities of strength and nobility. The name has historical roots in Irish mythology, where 'Niamh' was a princess from the mythical land of Tír na nÓg. It has seen varied use in Ireland and among Irish communitie

Cultural significance

Neala has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of irish.

Peak popularity

Reached #3663 in 1947 — currently #14647 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Neala?

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

Neala Grace

How popular is Neala right now?

Falling — down 4461 spots — currently #14647 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1940–2023#14647 · Top 11%

1940

1945

1955

1965

1990

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#14647	6	▼ down 4461 · -40% births
2022	#10186	10	▼ down 88
2021	#10098	10	▼ down 524
2020	#9574	10	▼ down 5340 · -71% births
2015	#4234	34	▲ up 2726 · +89% births
2010	#6960	18	▼ down 663 · -5% births
2005	#6297	19	▲ up 5350 · +217% births
1990	#11647	6	▼ down 6111 · -14% births
1965	#5536	7	▲ up 802 · +40% births
1955	#6338	5	▼ down 1231
1945	#5107	5	▼ down 167
1940	#4940	5	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Neala

Best Year2015Rank #4234

Peak Count34

Average Rank#7964

Current Trend↘Falling

Data Range1940 - 202312 years

The story of Neala

Neala entered American naming records in 1938 and has been in use for over 86 years. With 551 total births recorded, Neala remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #4940 in 1940, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #14647 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Neala in 1947:

Linda Mary Patricia Barbara Sandra

Neala by decade

Neala peaked in the 1940s. See all 1940s names →

Decade	Births
1930s	5
1940s	44
1950s	48
1960s	20
1970s	28
1980s	12
1990s	6
2000s	149
2010s ★	229
2020s	10

💎Neala has only 551 total recorded births since 1938 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Neala?

Common

NeaNealNealieNealy

What names sound and feel like Neala?

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

English · A beloved name

Ireland · Fair shoulder

Nejla

Turkey · a woman with

Common questions about the name Neala

What does the name Neala mean?

Neala means "Irish" — a name rooted in Ireland 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 Neala?

Neala 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 Neala?

Neala originates from Ireland tradition. Ireland names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.

Is Neala a common or rare name?

Neala is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.

What are good nicknames for Neala?

Neala 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.