Selah

To pause and reflect — a girl name of Hebrew origin

GenderGirl
OriginHebrew
MeaningTo pause and reflect
PronunciationSEE-luh

Popularity of Selah in the United States

#216Rank in 2025
1,416Births in 2025
#216 in 2025Peak Popularity
↑ Rising10-Year Trend

Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.

Meaning & Origin of Selah

Selah is a Hebrew word that appears more than seventy times in the Book of Psalms, believed to be a musical or liturgical direction instructing the reader to pause and reflect. Its exact meaning has been debated by scholars for centuries, with interpretations ranging from "pause," to "lift up," to a simple musical rest. As a given name, Selah has a serene, meditative quality that appeals to parents drawn to spiritually meaningful, uncommon biblical words. It has risen quickly in popularity in the 21st century.

Selah Around the World

Selah is used in 1 languages worldwide.

Languages
Turkish
Details

TypeUnisex name

Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.

Nicknames for Selah

SelLah

Famous People Named Selah

  • Selah Marley — American model, daughter of Lauryn Hill
  • Selah Sue — Belgian singer-songwriter

Similar Names to Selah

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Sibling Name Ideas for Selah

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Selah mean?

Selah is a girl name of Hebrew origin meaning "To pause and reflect." Selah is a Hebrew word that appears more than seventy times in the Book of Psalms, believed to be a musical or liturgical direction instructing the reader to pause and reflect. Its exact meaning has been debated by scholars for centuries, with interpretations ranging from "pause," to "lift up," to a simple musical rest.

How do you pronounce Selah?

Selah is pronounced SEE-luh. Common variations include Selah, Seelah, Sela.

Is Selah a girl name?

Yes, Selah is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Sel, Lah.

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