Stella
Star — a girl name of Latin origin
Popularity of Stella in the United States
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Meaning & Origin of Stella
Stella is the Latin word for "star." The name was popularized as a given name by the 16th-century poet Sir Philip Sidney, who used it in his sonnet sequence "Astrophel and Stella." Tennessee Williams further immortalized it in his 1947 play A Streetcar Named Desire, where Marlon Brando's iconic cry of "Stella!" became one of the most famous moments in theatrical history. The name carries a luminous, celestial quality that has made it perennially appealing. Stella has enjoyed a strong revival in the 21st century, climbing back into the top 50 girl names in the United States.
Stella Around the World
Stella is used in 6 languages worldwide, with 4+ international variants.
Male FormStellan
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
Nicknames for Stella
Famous People Named Stella
- Stella McCartney — British fashion designer
- Stella Adler — American actress and acting teacher
- Estelle — English singer and songwriter
Similar Names to Stella
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Sibling Name Ideas for Stella
Looking for names that pair well with Stella? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Stella mean?
Stella is a girl name of Latin origin meaning "Star." Stella is the Latin word for "star." The name was popularized as a given name by the 16th-century poet Sir Philip Sidney, who used it in his sonnet sequence "Astrophel and Stella.
How do you pronounce Stella?
Stella is pronounced STEL-uh. Common variations include Estella, Estelle, Estrella.
Is Stella a girl name?
Yes, Stella is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Stell, Elle, Ella.
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