The name Marcela carries a certain elegance and strength, a reflection of its rich history and Latin origins. Are you considering Marcela for your little one? Or perhaps you’re curious about the name’s popularity and what other names resonate with its sound and style? Here’s a comprehensive look at everything you need to know about the name Marcela.
The Meaning of Marcela
Marcela is a feminine given name with Latin roots. It is derived from the Roman name Marcellus, which itself is a diminutive form of Marcus. Marcus is believed to be derived from Mars, the Roman god of war. Thus, Marcela is often interpreted to mean "young warrior" or "dedicated to Mars." This connection to Mars lends the name a sense of strength, courage, and dedication.
Beyond its literal translation, the name evokes a sense of grace and sophistication, perhaps due to its popularity in Romance languages and cultures. It’s a name that suggests a woman who is both strong and refined.
Marcela Name Popularity
How popular is the name Marcela? Examining historical data provides valuable insights into the name’s usage over time. According to data from the Social Security Administration (SSA), the name Marcela hasn’t always been a chart-topper in the United States, but it has maintained a consistent presence, experiencing periods of increased popularity.
The SSA data reveals that the name did not appear in the rankings until 1915, reaching rank 1,351. While the name saw periods of absence in the charts, it reappeared again and saw some fluctuation in the ranks in the early to mid 20th century.
The name’s popularity began to climb more noticeably in the late 1960s and early 1970s. This rise likely coincided with broader trends in naming conventions, with parents seeking names that were both classic and distinctive. Marcela hit a peak rank of 87 in 1975. The name has remained in the charts ever since.
Marcela saw a resurgence in the late 1980s and early 1990s, experiencing another wave of popularity. While it hasn’t reached the same heights as in the 70s, it remains a relatively popular choice. In 2023, Marcela ranked 1,465 with 98 births, accounting for 0.0076% of total female births. This indicates that while not extremely common, Marcela is a familiar and well-liked name.
Here’s a brief overview of the name’s ranking at different points in time:
- 1915: Rank 1,351 (# of Births: 6, % Births: 0.0007%)
- 1950: Not Ranked (# of Births: 0, % Births: 0%)
- 1975: Rank 939 (# of Births: 87, % Births: 0.0068%)
- 1991: Rank 891 (# of Births: 172, % Births: 0.0106%)
- 2000: Rank 1,180 (# of Births: 117, % Births: 0.0077%)
- 2023: Rank 1,465 (# of Births: 98, % Births: 0.0076%)
Names Like Marcela: Alternatives and Similar Sounds
If you’re drawn to the name Marcela but seeking alternatives or variations, several names share similar qualities in terms of sound, origin, and style.
Sound-Alike Names:
- Marcele: Another name derived from Latin, meaning "dedicated to Mars."
- Marcila: Similar to Marcele, with the same Latin origin and meaning.
- Maricela: A Spanish variation with a pleasing sound.
Similar Names:
- Marcena: Again, another name derived from Latin, meaning "dedicated to Mars."
- Mariela: A combination of Maria and Ella, also of Latin origin, meaning "star of the sea."
- Marvela: A Latin name meaning "wonderful, extraordinary."
These names offer a similar aesthetic and historical connection while providing a slightly different twist.
Sibling Names: What Goes Well with Marcela?
Choosing sibling names can be a fun but sometimes challenging task. If you’re considering Marcela, you might be wondering what names complement it well. One name listed with Marcela is Channon.
- Channon: (Boy) Meaning "Young wolf; official of the church" and of French origin.
Marcela: A Timeless Choice
Ultimately, the decision of what to name your child is deeply personal. Marcela offers a blend of history, strength, and elegance. Its consistent, yet not overly common, presence in popularity charts makes it a distinctive and memorable choice. Whether you are drawn to its Latin roots, its meaning of "young warrior," or simply its melodic sound, Marcela is a name that is sure to stand the test of time.