The name Aracely originates from the Latin name Aracelitana, which likely comes from the Roman town of Aracelitana located in ancient Hispania (the Iberian Peninsula). This town's name is thought to derive from the Iberian language words "ara" meaning "flat" and "celi" meaning "mountain," referring to its geographical location on a flat mountain area.

Aracelitana evolved into the Spanish name Araceli over time through linguistic changes. The name Araceli has been used in Spanish-speaking regions for centuries, particularly in Spain and parts of Latin America influenced by Spanish colonization. It was initially more common among Catholics, as the name Araceli refers to the Virgin Mary's Spanish title "Nuestra Señora de Araceli" (Our Lady of Araceli).

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Araceli dates back to the 13th century, when it was mentioned in a Spanish religious text referring to the Virgin Mary. In the 16th century, a Spanish noblewoman named Araceli de Mendoza was born in 1520 and became known for her poetry.

Another notable historical figure with this name was Araceli García del Saz (1889-1964), a Spanish feminist and educator who fought for women's rights and educational reforms in the early 20th century. She founded several schools and organizations promoting women's education and suffrage in Spain.

In the 17th century, Araceli Longás (1627-1708) was a Spanish nun and mystic who founded the Franciscan convent of Araceli in Madrid. She is recognized as a venerable by the Catholic Church.

The name Aracely also has historical roots in Latin America. One example is Aracely Aramburo (1833-1853), a Cuban poet and revolutionary who actively participated in the struggle for Cuban independence from Spanish colonial rule.

While originally more common in Spanish-speaking regions, the name Aracely has spread to other parts of the world due to immigration and cultural exchange. It has seen some usage in other languages, though it retains its Spanish origins and connections to the Virgin Mary and notable historical figures from Spain and Latin America.