Find out how popular the first name Chelea has been for the last 5 years (from 1987 to 1991) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Chelea by gender

Based on the last 5 years of data, Chelea is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 1991, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Chelea.

The history of the first name Chelea

The name Chelea has its origins in the ancient Etruscan civilization, which flourished in what is now known as Italy during the 8th to 3rd centuries BC. It is believed to have derived from the Etruscan word "chele," meaning "swift" or "agile." This name was likely given to children who exhibited qualities of speed and dexterity from a young age.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Chelea can be found in the Etruscan inscriptions discovered in the necropolis of Cerveteri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Rome. These inscriptions, dating back to the 6th century BC, suggest that the name was relatively common among the Etruscan aristocracy.

In ancient Roman times, the name Chelea was occasionally adopted by Roman families who wished to pay homage to their Etruscan heritage. One notable figure bearing this name was Chelea Claudius, a Roman senator and military commander who lived in the 2nd century AD. He is mentioned in several historical texts for his valor and strategic prowess during the Marcomannic Wars.

During the Middle Ages, the name Chelea fell into relative obscurity, only to resurface in the Renaissance period. One of the most famous individuals with this name was Chelea Veronese, an Italian painter and architect born in 1528 in Verona. He is renowned for his frescoes in the Palazzo Ducale in Venice and his architectural contributions to several churches in his native city.

In the 17th century, Chelea Spinola, a Genoese nobleman and admiral, gained prominence for his naval exploits in the service of the Spanish Crown. He is credited with several victories against the Ottoman Empire in the Mediterranean, including the Battle of the Dardanelles in 1656.

Another notable figure was Chelea Boccherini, an Italian composer and cellist born in 1743 in Lucca. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest cellists of his time and is known for his contributions to the development of the cello repertoire, including his famous Cello Concerto in B-flat major.

Despite its ancient origins, the name Chelea has remained relatively uncommon throughout history, perhaps due to its unique spelling and pronunciation. However, it has managed to endure across centuries, serving as a testament to the enduring cultural legacy of the Etruscan civilization.

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

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

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