Stella
Stella is a girl name of Latin origin meaning “Star”, pronounced STEL-uh. It ranked #52 in the United States in 2025, given to 4,136 babies, and peaked at #38 in 2018. Common nicknames: Stell, Elle, Ella.
How popular is 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.
What does Stella mean, and where does it come from?
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.
How is Stella used 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.
What are the 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
If you like Stella, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
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.