Find out how popular the first name Xela has been for the last 29 years (from 1995 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Xela by gender

Based on the last 29 years of data, Xela is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 32 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Xela.

The history of the first name Xela

The given name Xela has its origins in the Nahuatl language, spoken by the Aztec people of ancient Mexico. The name is believed to have derived from the word "xelhua," which means "to divide" or "to separate." This linguistic connection suggests that the name may have been associated with concepts of division, duality, or division of land or resources.

In ancient Aztec culture, names often held deep symbolic significance, reflecting cultural values, beliefs, or celestial events. While there is limited historical documentation on the specific origins and early usage of the name Xela, its Nahuatl roots trace back to the time of the Aztec Empire, which flourished between the 14th and 16th centuries in what is now central Mexico.

The earliest recorded instances of the name Xela are found in colonial-era documents from the 16th and 17th centuries, where it appears as a personal name among indigenous populations in Mexico. One notable figure from this time was Xela Cuauhtémoc, a prominent Nahua leader who led resistance efforts against Spanish colonial rule in the late 16th century.

As the Spanish colonization of the Americas progressed, the name Xela likely spread to other regions, potentially carried by indigenous populations or adopted by Spanish settlers. In the 18th century, historical records show a Xela Hernández, a landowner and rancher in the region of present-day Texas.

Fast forward to the 20th century, and the name Xela gained greater visibility through its association with notable individuals. One such figure was Xela Avelar (1920-2012), a Salvadoran writer and activist known for her contributions to feminist literature and social movements in Central America.

Another prominent bearer of the name was Xela Trían (1935-2011), a Mexican artist renowned for her vibrant paintings and murals that celebrated indigenous Mexican culture and traditions. Her works are displayed in numerous museums and public spaces throughout Mexico.

It is worth noting that while the name Xela has ancient roots in Mesoamerican cultures, its usage has been relatively uncommon in modern times, likely due to the influence of Spanish colonization and the subsequent adoption of European naming conventions. However, its unique linguistic heritage and cultural connections have ensured that it remains a distinctive and meaningful name within certain communities and regions.

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

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

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