Ella
Ella is a girl name of Germanic / Old English origin meaning “Fairy maiden / foreign”, pronounced EL-uh. It ranked #29 in the United States in 2025, given to 5,831 babies, and peaked at #12 in 2011. Common nicknames: Ellie, El.
How popular is Ella in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Ella mean, and where does it come from?
Ella has roots in Old Germanic, where it relates to an element sometimes glossed as "fairy maiden," and in Old English "Ælle," a name borne by early Anglo-Saxon kings. It also functions historically as a short form of Ellen, Eleanor, or Helen. Ella has surged to become one of the most beloved short, vowel-ending names for girls internationally, prized for its simplicity and warmth.
How is Ella used around the world?
Ella is used in 4 languages worldwide, with 7+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Ella?
Famous People Named Ella
- Ella Fitzgerald — legendary American jazz vocalist known as the "First Lady of Song"
- Ella Baker — American civil rights and human rights activist
- Ella Purnell — British actress known for "Yellowjackets" and "Fallout"
Similar Names to Ella
If you like Ella, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Ella
Looking for names that pair well with Ella? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Ella mean?
Ella is a girl name of Germanic / Old English origin meaning "Fairy maiden / foreign." Ella has roots in Old Germanic, where it relates to an element sometimes glossed as "fairy maiden," and in Old English "Ælle," a name borne by early Anglo-Saxon kings. It also functions historically as a short form of Ellen, Eleanor, or Helen.
How do you pronounce Ella?
Ella is pronounced EL-uh. Common variations include Elle, Elah, Ellah.
Is Ella a girl name?
Yes, Ella is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Ellie, El.