Zella is a unique and captivating female given name with an intriguing origin story and deep symbolic meaning.
The name Zella is of German origin, derived from the Germanic word "seli," which means "blessed" or "happy." It is also associated with the Greek word "zelos," meaning "zeal" or "ardor." This dual heritage gives Zella a rich tapestry of meanings, suggesting both profound inner joy and fierce passion.
Zella's history can be traced back to medieval Germany, where it was used as a diminutive form of names like Selma or Zelda. However, its usage has been relatively uncommon throughout history, making it an unusual yet enchanting choice for parents seeking a distinctive name for their daughter.
Despite its rarity, Zella has gained some recognition in popular culture. For instance, it is the name of the protagonist in the young adult novel "Zella" by Australian author Melissa Norman. This exposure has helped to bring this unique name to wider attention and inspire new generations to consider it as an option for their own children.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence in interest in names with strong meanings and distinctive sounds, such as Zella. Its powerful yet uncommon nature makes it an appealing choice for parents looking for something truly special and memorable for their daughter.
The name Zella has been given to a total of 13,141 babies in the United States over the years, with its popularity fluctuating over time.
Between 1880 and 1975, there was a peak in the usage of the name Zella. During this period, the highest number of births occurred in 1923, with 267 babies being named Zella that year. However, by 1975, the popularity of the name had significantly decreased, with only 5 babies being named Zella that year.
After a decline in popularity for several decades, the name Zella began to see a resurgence starting around the late 2000s. In 2004, there were 34 births with the name Zella, and this number continued to rise steadily over the following years. By 2015, there were 157 babies named Zella, marking a significant increase in popularity compared to previous decades.
More recently, the popularity of the name Zella has continued to grow. In 2021, there were 183 births with the name Zella, making it one of the most popular years for the name since the early 1900s. Additionally, in 2022 and 2023, the name Zella remained relatively popular, with 155 and 131 births respectively.
Overall, while the popularity of the name Zella has fluctuated over time, it has experienced a notable resurgence in recent years, suggesting that it may continue to be a popular choice for parents in the United States.