Find out how popular the first name Ceilia has been for the last 2 years (from 1984 to 1985) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Ceilia by gender

Based on the last 2 years of data, Ceilia is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 1985, there were 6 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Ceilia.

The history of the first name Ceilia

The name Ceilia has its origins in the ancient Roman culture, dating back to the classical era. It is derived from the Latin word "caelum," which means "heaven" or "sky." This celestial connection gives the name a sense of purity and divinity.

In ancient Roman texts, Ceilia was sometimes used as a variant spelling of the name Caelia, which was borne by several notable Roman women. One of the earliest recorded examples is Caelia Polla, a Roman noblewoman who lived in the 1st century AD and was known for her philanthropic endeavors.

The name Ceilia gained popularity during the early Christian era, as it resonated with the religious symbolism of heaven and the celestial realm. It was often chosen for baby girls born into devout Christian families, with the hope that they would embody the virtues of purity and grace associated with the name.

Historically, several women of significance have borne the name Ceilia. One notable figure was Saint Ceilia, a Roman martyr who lived in the 3rd century AD. According to legend, she was a young Christian who defied the pagan Roman authorities and was executed for her faith. Her story inspired many works of art and literature throughout the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.

In the 16th century, Ceilia Gonzaga (1516-1566) was an Italian noblewoman and religious leader who founded the Order of the Celestial Virgins. Her dedication to spiritual pursuits and her promotion of education for women earned her widespread admiration.

Another prominent Ceilia was Ceilia Thaxter (1835-1894), an American poet and author known for her works inspired by the natural beauty of the Isles of Shoals, where she lived. Her vivid descriptions of the island landscapes and coastal life earned her acclaim in literary circles.

In the world of music, Ceilia Cruz (1925-2003) was a Cuban-American singer and performer who became a legendary figure in the Latin music scene. Known as the "Queen of Salsa," she was renowned for her vibrant stage presence and her contributions to popularizing the salsa genre worldwide.

The name Ceilia has maintained a timeless quality throughout history, reflecting its celestial origins and association with virtues of purity, grace, and spirituality. Its enduring appeal has ensured its continued use as a beautiful and meaningful choice for baby girls across generations.

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 Ceilia was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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