The name Stella has its origins in the Latin word 'stella', meaning 'star'. It is a feminine name that traces its roots back to ancient Roman times. The name was derived from the Latin word 'stellatus', which means 'starry' or 'decorated with stars'.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Stella can be found in the works of the ancient Roman poet Ovid, who lived from 43 BC to 17 AD. In his famous work 'Metamorphoses', Ovid makes reference to a character named Stella. This suggests that the name was already in use during the early years of the Roman Empire.

Stella was a relatively uncommon name during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance period, but it gained popularity in the 17th and 18th centuries. One of the earliest notable bearers of the name was Stella Calvert (1631-1697), who was the daughter of the first Lord Baltimore and a prominent figure in the early history of Maryland.

In the literary world, the name Stella is perhaps best associated with the 18th-century Irish writer and playwright Jonathan Swift. In his famous work 'The Journal to Stella', Swift chronicles his correspondence with Esther Johnson, whom he affectionately referred to as 'Stella'. This work is believed to have contributed to the increased popularity of the name during that time period.

Another famous Stella from history is Stella Maris (1923-1989), who was a Catholic nun and missionary in India. She dedicated her life to helping the poor and marginalized, and her work earned her widespread recognition and respect.

Stella Adler (1901-1992) was an influential American actress and acting teacher. She founded the Stella Adler Studio of Acting in New York City, which has trained numerous acclaimed actors over the years. Her teachings and techniques have had a lasting impact on the art of acting.

Stella Nickell (born 1942) is a notorious American woman who was convicted of murder after lacing Excedrin capsules with cyanide in 1986. Her case gained widespread media attention and sparked concerns about product tampering and consumer safety.

Throughout history, the name Stella has been associated with various meanings and symbols, including beauty, radiance, and the celestial heavens. Its connection to the Latin word for 'star' has made it a popular choice for parents seeking a name with a celestial or cosmic connotation.