What does Tella mean and where does it come from?
Tella is derived from the Italian and Spanish words for 'canvas' or 'fabric.' While not exceedingly common as a first name, it carries artistic connotation reflecting creativity and craftsmanship. It has regional popularity in Mediterranean countries especially among Italian and Spanish-speaking pop
Cultural significance
Tella has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Italy-speaking communities, where it reflects values of tela.
Peak popularity
Reached #930 in 1880 — currently #1483 in the US.
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Related Reading
Italy-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Tella?
Tella works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Tella Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Tella Rose
Floral · soft ending
Tella Mae
Sweet · timeless
Tella Claire
French influence · crisp
Tella Jane
Literary · strong
Tella Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Tella right now?
Holding steady — currently #1483 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1483 | 717 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2022 | #1488 | 697 | ▲ up 5 · +4% births |
| 2021 | #1493 | 667 | ▲ up 2538 · +9429% births |
| 1925 | #4031 | 7 | ▲ up 952 · +40% births |
| 1920 | #4983 | 5 | ▼ down 4053 |
| 1880 | #930 | 5 | — |
The story of Tella
Tella has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 54 total births recorded, Tella remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #930 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1483 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Tella in 1880:
Tella by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 10 | |
| 1910s | 5 | |
| 1920s ★ | 18 | |
| 1940s | 5 | |
| 1980s | 16 | |
💎Tella has only 54 total recorded births since 1880 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Tella?
What names sound and feel like Tella?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Tella also consider these
Common questions about the name Tella
What does the name Tella mean?
Tella means "tela" — 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 Tella?
Tella is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Tella?
Tella 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.
How do you pronounce the name Tella?
Tella is a two-syllable name pronounced T EH1 L L AA1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Tella a common or rare name?
Tella is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.