Find out how popular the first name Shella has been for the last 37 years (from 1974 to 2010) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Shella by gender

Based on the last 37 years of data, Shella is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2010, there were 6 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Shella.

The history of the first name Shella

The given name Shella is believed to have its origins in the Sanskrit language, with roots tracing back to ancient India. While the exact etymology is uncertain, it is thought to be a variation or derivative of the Sanskrit word "shila," which means "rock" or "stone."

In ancient Indian culture, rocks and stones held significant symbolic meaning, often representing strength, resilience, and endurance. The name Shella may have been bestowed upon individuals with the intention of imbuing them with these qualities or as a reflection of their perceived character traits.

The earliest recorded instances of the name Shella can be found in ancient Hindu texts and scriptures, where it appears as a feminine name, though its usage was relatively rare. One notable historical figure bearing this name was Shella Devi, a revered female saint and mystic who lived in the 8th century CE in the region now known as Rajasthan, India.

During the Middle Ages, the name Shella gained some popularity in parts of Europe, particularly in regions influenced by the spread of Indian culture and philosophy. In the 13th century, a notable bearer of this name was Shella of Avignon, a French noblewoman and patron of the arts who played a significant role in the cultural renaissance of the time.

As trade and cultural exchanges between the East and West increased during the Renaissance period, the name Shella found its way into various European languages and cultures. In the 16th century, an Italian philosopher and scholar named Shella Piccolomini made significant contributions to the fields of ethics and metaphysics.

In more recent centuries, the name Shella has maintained a relatively niche presence, with a few notable individuals bearing it. One such figure was Shella Zaki, an Egyptian poet and activist who lived in the early 20th century and was known for her advocacy of women's rights and social reform.

Another notable bearer of the name was Shella Baschen, a German-born artist and sculptor who gained recognition in the latter half of the 20th century for her innovative works in various mediums, including ceramics and metal.

While the name Shella may not be among the most common or widely used names today, it carries a rich historical legacy and a connection to diverse cultures and traditions spanning multiple centuries and regions of the world.

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

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

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