Stella
♀Latin
✨ Meaning
Stella is the Latin word for 'star,' and was used in medieval Christianity in the title 'Stella Maris' (Star of the Sea), an epithet for the Virgin Mary. The name evokes brightness, guidance, and celestial beauty. It carries a romantic, literary quality that has resonated across centuries.
🌍 Origin
Stella was popularized as a given name by Sir Philip Sidney's 1590 sonnet sequence 'Astrophil and Stella.' It gained further cultural recognition through Tennessee Williams' 1947 play 'A Streetcar Named Desire,' featuring the iconic line 'Stella!' and through modern celebrity baby names.
📈 Popularity Trend
⭐ Famous People Named Stella
- Stella McCartney
- Stella Tennant
- Stella Banderas
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What does Stella mean?
Stella means 'star' in Latin. The title 'Stella Maris' (Star of the Sea) was an epithet for the Virgin Mary, giving the name spiritual and celestial resonance.
Is Stella a popular name?
Stella has climbed back into the top 35 US girl names after a mid-century dip, beloved for its celestial imagery and literary associations.
What are similar names to Stella?
Similar names include Luna, Aurora, Nova, Celeste, and Lyra — all names with a shining, celestial quality.