What does Sela mean and where does it come from?
Sela has biblical roots, often interpreted as a place name found in the Old Testament. It conveys strength and stability due to its meaning related to rock formations. The name has gained some modern usage in various cultures, particularly among Jewish families and in the United States. Recognized f
Cultural significance
Sela has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of סֵלָע, meaning 'rock' or 'cliff'..
Peak popularity
Reached #2042 in 2000 — currently #5100 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Sela?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Sela?
Sela works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Sela Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Sela Rose
Floral · soft ending
Sela Claire
French influence · crisp
Sela Jane
Literary · strong
Sela Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Sela right now?
Rising fast — up 338 spots — currently #5100 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #5100 | 26 | ▲ up 338 · +8% births |
| 2022 | #5438 | 24 | ▲ up 477 · +14% births |
| 2021 | #5915 | 21 | ▲ up 165 · +11% births |
| 2020 | #6080 | 19 | ▼ down 1329 · -34% births |
| 2015 | #4751 | 29 | ▼ down 124 · -6% births |
| 2010 | #4627 | 31 | ▼ down 1982 · -52% births |
| 2005 | #2645 | 64 | ▼ down 603 · -21% births |
| 2000 | #2042 | 81 | ▲ up 1665 · +179% births |
| 1995 | #3707 | 29 | ▲ up 6751 · +314% births |
| 1990 | #10458 | 7 | ▼ down 4382 · +40% births |
| 1950 | #6076 | 5 | — |
The story of Sela
Sela entered American naming records in 1950 and has been in use for over 74 years. With 1,193 total births recorded, Sela remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #6076 in 1950 to #5100 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Sela in 2000:
Sela by decade
Sela peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1950s | 17 | |
| 1970s | 13 | |
| 1980s | 17 | |
| 1990s | 188 | |
| 2000s ★ | 615 | |
| 2010s | 324 | |
| 2020s | 19 | |
💎With 1,193 total births, Sela is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Sela?
Famous people named Sela
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Sela (historical community leader)
Sela led communities across the ancient Near East who passed this name through generations.
S(
Sela (historical community leader)
Sela led communities across the ancient Near East who passed this name through generations.
S(
Sela (historical figure)
Sela bore this name in the Biblical tradition, reflecting its deep roots in Hebrew scripture and culture.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Sela?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Sela also consider these
How is Sela written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Sela
What does the name Sela mean?
Sela means "סֵלָע, meaning 'rock' or 'cliff'." — a name rooted in Hebrew 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 Sela?
Sela 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 Sela?
Sela originates from Hebrew tradition. Hebrew 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 Sela?
Sela is a two-syllable name pronounced S EH1 L AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Sela a common or rare name?
Sela is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.