What does Stella mean and where does it come from?
Stella originates from the Latin word 'stella', which means 'star'. It is often seen as a symbol of hope, guidance, and beauty. The name has gained popularity across various cultures and languages, especially in English-speaking countries. It has been borne by notable people such as Stella Adler (ac
Cultural significance
Stella has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Latin-speaking communities, where it reflects values of star.
Peak popularity
Reached #38 in 2018 — currently #52 in the US.
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Related Reading
Latin-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Stella?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Stella?
Stella works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Stella Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Stella Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Stella Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Stella Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Stella Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Stella Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Stella right now?
Holding steady — currently #52 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #52 | 4,136 | ▼ down 3 · -3% births |
| 2024 | #49 | 4,274 | ▼ down 3 · -2% births |
| 2023 | #46 | 4,366 | ▼ down 6 · -10% births |
| 2022 | #40 | 4,845 | ▲ up 1 · +1% births |
| 2021 | #41 | 4,818 | ▲ up 1 · +4% births |
| 2020 | #42 | 4,624 | ▲ up 9 · -4% births |
| 2015 | #51 | 4,792 | ▲ up 34 · +39% births |
| 2010 | #85 | 3,440 | ▲ up 165 · +163% births |
| 2005 | #250 | 1,308 | ▲ up 406 · +248% births |
| 2000 | #656 | 376 | ▲ up 666 · +201% births |
| 1995 | #1322 | 125 | ▼ down 276 · -27% births |
| 1990 | #1046 | 171 | ▼ down 59 · +11% births |
| 1985 | #987 | 154 | ▼ down 257 · -32% births |
| 1980 | #730 | 228 | ▼ down 102 · -9% births |
| 1975 | #628 | 251 | — |
The story of Stella
Stella has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #38 in 2018. More than 184,677 babies have been named Stella since 1880. Stella shows a classic revival pattern — popular in the 1880s, declining mid-century, then surging back in recent decades. Stella is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Stella in 2018:
Stella by decade
Stella peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 6,135 | |
| 1890s | 9,833 | |
| 1900s | 11,055 | |
| 1910s | 28,586 | |
| 1920s | 25,996 | |
| 1930s | 11,286 | |
| 1940s | 11,381 | |
| 1950s | 8,598 | |
| 1960s | 4,959 | |
| 1970s | 2,565 | |
| 1980s | 1,867 | |
| 1990s | 1,799 | |
| 2000s | 11,837 | |
| 2010s ★ | 44,151 | |
| 2020s | 13,039 | |
What are good nicknames for Stella?
Famous people named Stella
S(
Stella (historical Roman figure)
Stella carried this name during the Roman Empire, giving it the enduring weight of classical civilization.
S(
Stella (Roman senator or statesman)
Stella held this name during the height of Roman civilization, when Latin names spread across Europe.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2025
Explore →What names sound and feel like Stella?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Stella also consider these
Common questions about the name Stella
What does the name Stella mean?
Stella means "star" — a name rooted in Latin 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 Stella?
Stella is currently ranked #46 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 Stella?
Stella originates from Latin tradition. Latin 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 Stella?
Stella is a two-syllable name pronounced STEL-uh. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Stella more of a girl or boy name?
Stella is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.