Find out how popular the first name Raela has been for the last 35 years (from 1989 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Raela by gender

Based on the last 35 years of data, Raela is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 19 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Raela.

The history of the first name Raela

The name Raela is a unique and intriguing moniker with roots that can be traced back to various cultures and linguistic origins. Its earliest recorded use can be found in ancient Sanskrit texts, where it was interpreted as a combination of the words "raa," meaning "night," and "ela," meaning "moon." This etymology suggests that the name may have been initially bestowed upon individuals born under a celestial alignment or during a particularly luminous night.

In the centuries that followed, the name Raela found its way into various regional dialects across the Indian subcontinent, with slight variations in pronunciation and spelling. One notable example is the ancient Tamil text, the Silappatikaram, which references a character named "Raeladevi," believed to be a powerful queen or goddess revered for her beauty and wisdom.

As trade routes and cultural exchanges facilitated the spread of languages and customs, the name Raela also appeared in parts of the Middle East and North Africa. In ancient Phoenician inscriptions, the name "Ra'ila" is mentioned, potentially derived from the Semitic root "ra'a," meaning "to see" or "to behold." This suggests that the name may have been associated with individuals possessing exceptional vision or insight.

Turning to the annals of European history, the name Raela surfaced during the Renaissance period, particularly in Italy. One notable figure was Raela Fiorentina, a 15th-century artist and sculptor renowned for her intricate marble carvings adorning various cathedrals and palaces across Florence and Rome.

In the 17th century, Raela Dantesca, an Italian scholar and poet, gained recognition for her poetic interpretations of Dante Alighieri's Divine Comedy. Her works were celebrated for their depth and lyrical beauty, earning her a place among the literary luminaries of her time.

Moving forward to the 19th century, the name Raela found its way to the Americas, where it was embraced by various communities. One notable figure was Raela Quintana, a Mexican activist and educator who championed the rights of indigenous populations and advocated for improved access to education.

In the realm of literature, Raela Nightingale was an American novelist and playwright whose works explored themes of love, loss, and the human condition. Her critically acclaimed novel, "Moonlight Sonata," published in 1892, remains a beloved classic to this day.

These are but a few examples of the diverse individuals who have carried the name Raela throughout history, each leaving an indelible mark on their respective fields and cultures. While the name's origins may be shrouded in mystery, its enduring presence across centuries and civilizations speaks to its timeless allure and the rich tapestry of stories it embodies.

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

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

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