What does Tela mean and where does it come from?
Tela is a name of both Spanish and English origin, meaning 'canvas' or 'fabric'. It reflects artistic and creative connotations, perhaps linked with textiles and artistry. In Spanish-speaking countries, the name can evoke images of softness and texture. Tela is relatively uncommon as a given name bu
Cultural significance
Tela has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Spanish-speaking communities, where it reflects values of canvas.
Peak popularity
Reached #1700 in 1894 — currently #1490 in the US.
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Related Reading
Spanish-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Tela?
Tela works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Tela Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Tela Rose
Floral · soft ending
Tela Claire
French influence · crisp
Tela Jane
Literary · strong
Tela Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Tela right now?
Holding steady — currently #1490 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1490 | 710 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2022 | #1495 | 690 | ▲ up 5 · +5% births |
| 2021 | #1500 | 660 | ▲ up 13030 · +10900% births |
| 2015 | #14530 | 6 | ▲ up 493 |
| 2010 | #15023 | 6 | ▼ down 6670 · -54% births |
| 2005 | #8353 | 13 | ▼ down 745 |
| 2000 | #7608 | 13 | ▼ down 54 · +18% births |
| 1995 | #7554 | 11 | ▼ down 2670 · -42% births |
| 1990 | #4884 | 19 | ▼ down 2623 · -58% births |
| 1985 | #2261 | 45 | ▲ up 4109 · +350% births |
| 1980 | #6370 | 10 | ▼ down 2295 · -29% births |
| 1970 | #4075 | 14 | ▲ up 1289 · +100% births |
| 1965 | #5364 | 7 | ▼ down 868 · -22% births |
| 1960 | #4496 | 9 | ▲ up 1479 · +80% births |
| 1955 | #5975 | 5 | — |
The story of Tela
Tela has been a beloved American name for over 130 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1894. With 700 total births recorded, Tela remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5975 in 1955 to #1490 in 2023. Tela is used for both genders: 99% female and 1% male.
Names that peaked alongside Tela in 1894:
Tela by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 5 | |
| 1940s | 12 | |
| 1950s | 22 | |
| 1960s | 84 | |
| 1970s | 82 | |
| 1980s ★ | 195 | |
| 1990s | 168 | |
| 2000s | 98 | |
| 2010s | 34 | |
💎Tela has only 700 total recorded births since 1894 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Tela?
Famous people named Tela
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Tela (Spanish royal)
Tela held this name in the Spanish Crown, giving it aristocratic resonance across the Hispanic world.
T(
Tela (Flamenco artist)
Tela carried this name in the vibrant tradition of Spanish music and dance.
T(
Tela (Latin American historical figure)
Tela used this name across South and Central America as Spanish naming traditions spread.
T(
Tela (Spanish royal)
Tela held this name in the Spanish Crown, giving it aristocratic resonance across the Hispanic world.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Tela?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Tela also consider these
Common questions about the name Tela
What does the name Tela mean?
Tela means "canvas" — a name rooted in Spanish 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 Tela?
Tela is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Tela?
Tela originates from Spanish tradition. Spanish 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 Tela?
Tela is a two-syllable name pronounced T IY1 L AA1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Tela a common or rare name?
Tela is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.