Find out how popular the first name Calla has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Calla by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Calla is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 129 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Calla.

The history of the first name Calla

The given name Calla is derived from the Greek word 'kallos', meaning beauty. It originated in ancient Greece, where the calla lily was a revered flower symbolizing purity and magnificence. The name was often bestowed upon girls born into aristocratic families, as a representation of their beauty and grace.

In ancient Roman times, the name was Latinized to 'Calla', and it gained popularity among the upper classes. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name was Calla Pulchra, a Roman noblewoman from the 1st century AD, renowned for her exceptional beauty and philanthropic endeavors.

During the Middle Ages, the name fell out of favor in Europe but remained in use within certain Greek communities. It resurfaced in the Renaissance period, particularly in Italy, where the calla lily was a prominent motif in art and literature. The renowned Italian painter Calla Veneziano (1460-1528) was celebrated for her exquisite portraiture of Venetian nobility.

In the 18th century, the name gained traction in England and France, often associated with artistic and literary circles. Calla Beaumont (1720-1785), a French playwright, was lauded for her romantic comedies that challenged societal norms of the time.

As European exploration and colonization expanded, the name traveled to the Americas. Calla Sheridan (1810-1888) was an influential American poet and abolitionist, whose works shed light on the struggles of enslaved people and advocated for their emancipation.

During the 20th century, the name experienced a resurgence in popularity. Calla Bryn (1901-1976), a Welsh actress, gained international acclaim for her performances on stage and in early cinema. Calla Schroeder (1920-2005), a German-American photographer, captured iconic images of post-war Europe and the civil rights movement in the United States.

These are just a few examples of notable individuals who have borne the name Calla throughout history, highlighting its enduring association with beauty, grace, and artistic expression across various cultures and time periods.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Calla was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Calla, please contact us.

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