The name Citlaly has its origins in the Nahuatl language, spoken by the Aztecs and other indigenous peoples of central Mexico. It is believed to have emerged during the pre-Columbian era, before the arrival of Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century.

Citlaly is derived from the Nahuatl words "citlalli" meaning "star" and "tzin" which is an honorific suffix. Therefore, the name Citlaly can be translated as "little star" or "precious star." This suggests that the name may have been given to children who were considered particularly special or precious.

There are no known historical references to the name Citlaly in ancient texts or religious scriptures. However, it is likely that the name was in use among Nahuatl-speaking communities for centuries before the Spanish conquest.

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name Citlaly comes from the 17th century. Citlaly Ochoterena was a prominent figure in the early colonial era, known for her advocacy for indigenous rights and her efforts to preserve Nahuatl language and culture.

Several other notable individuals have carried the name Citlaly throughout history. Citlaly Gomez (1904-1981) was a Mexican artist and activist who played a significant role in the Mexican muralist movement. Citlaly Pulido (1938-2012) was a renowned Mexican singer and actress, celebrated for her contributions to the Golden Age of Mexican cinema.

In the realm of literature, Citlaly Moreno (1922-1998) was a celebrated Mexican poet and writer, whose works explored themes of identity, feminism, and social justice. Citlaly Guerrero (1892-1970) was a pioneering Mexican filmmaker and screenwriter, known for her groundbreaking work in the early years of Mexican cinema.

More recently, Citlaly Mureddu (born 1978) is an Italian-Mexican actress and model who has appeared in numerous films and television shows, both in Mexico and internationally.