Find out how popular the first name Gella has been for the last 15 years (from 2009 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Gella by gender

Based on the last 15 years of data, Gella is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 6 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Gella.

The history of the first name Gella

The name Gella has its origins in the ancient Germanic languages. It is believed to have derived from the Old High German word "gello," which meant "bright" or "shining." This name was particularly popular during the Middle Ages in various regions of Europe where Germanic tribes settled.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Gella dates back to the 9th century, when it was mentioned in the Carolingian chronicles as the name of a nobly born woman from the Frankish Kingdom. These chronicles provide valuable insights into the use of names during that era.

In the 11th century, a Benedictine nun named Gella von Obermarchtal (1030-1092) gained recognition for her pious life and efforts in establishing a convent in the town of Obermarchtal, located in present-day Baden-Württemberg, Germany. Her legacy as a religious figure contributed to the continued use of the name in the region.

During the High Middle Ages, the name Gella was also found among the aristocratic families of the Holy Roman Empire. Notable examples include Gella von Hatzfeld (1185-1247), a noblewoman from the House of Hatzfeld, and Gella von Büren (1220-1278), a member of the influential House of Büren.

In the 14th century, Gella von Wolkenstein (1325-1390) was a prominent figure in the court of Emperor Charles IV. She was renowned for her skillful management of the imperial household and her involvement in various cultural and artistic endeavors.

Another historical figure with this name was Gella von Hirschberg (1460-1521), a Silesian noblewoman known for her patronage of the arts and her support for the Reformation movement in the region. Her influence and connections with religious reformers like Martin Luther contributed to the spread of Protestant ideas in Silesia.

While the name Gella was more prevalent in certain regions of Europe during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance period, it has since become relatively uncommon. However, its historical significance and connection to Germanic roots make it a name with a rich cultural heritage.

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

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

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