Selena, a name steeped in history and brimming with mystique, continues to capture hearts across generations. This article delves into the meaning, origins, popularity, and alternative names related to Selena, offering a comprehensive look at this enchanting moniker.
Selena Name Meaning
The name Selena directly translates to "moon." Beyond this simple definition, the name evokes qualities of mystery, radiance, and enchantment. Individuals named Selena are often perceived as possessing a magnetic presence and a soothing, gentle energy. In essence, Selena embodies the ethereal beauty and calming influence of the moon itself.
Origins of the Name Selena
Selena’s roots lie in Latin, derived from the Greek word "selene," also meaning "moon." In Greek mythology, Selene was the goddess of the moon, often depicted as a beautiful woman gracefully traversing the night sky in a chariot. This powerful association with lunar divinity has imbued the name Selena with connotations of beauty, radiance, and feminine power since antiquity. The name carries a sense of ancient wisdom and timeless elegance.
The Rise of Selena’s Popularity
While Selena maintained a subtle presence in naming trends throughout the early 20th century, its popularity began to steadily climb in the 1970s and 1980s. However, the name experienced a significant surge in the 1990s. This upswing can be largely attributed to the widespread fame of Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, the iconic Tejano singer.
Selena Quintanilla, a vibrant and immensely talented artist, transcended musical boundaries and became a cultural icon, particularly within the Latinx community. Her tragic death in 1995 deeply impacted her fans, and the name Selena experienced a further surge in popularity as a means of honoring her enduring legacy. The name became synonymous with her vibrant spirit, talent, and the indelible mark she left on music and culture.
Examining historical naming data, the impact of Selena Quintanilla’s influence is undeniable. In 1990, Selena ranked at 769 with 216 births, representing 0.013% of births. By 1995, following her death, the name skyrocketed to rank 91, with a staggering 3,804 births, accounting for 0.2524% of all births. This dramatic increase underscores the profound connection between the name and the singer’s lasting impact.
Even after the initial surge, Selena has maintained a consistent presence in the top names for girls. From 2017 to 2023, the name has remained consistently popular, with 2021 seeing a high rank of 204 and 1,331 births. In 2023, Selena ranked 230 with 1,281 births, demonstrating its enduring appeal to modern parents.
Selena Name Popularity
The popularity of Selena fluctuates, as demonstrated by Social Security Administration data. The name’s prevalence is affected by cultural events and shifts in naming preferences.
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910 | 825 | 7 | 0.002% |
| 1958 | 679 | 165 | 0.0087% |
| 1977 | 297 | 767 | 0.0569% |
| 1995 | 91 | 3,804 | 0.2524% |
| 2000 | 191 | 1,632 | 0.1068% |
| 2010 | 325 | 951 | 0.066% |
| 2020 | 236 | 1,203 | 0.0945% |
| 2023 | 230 | 1,281 | 0.099% |
Names Similar to Selena
If the allure of Selena resonates with you, consider these alternative names with similar sounds, meanings, or origins:
- Selene: The direct Greek form, meaning "moon."
- Celene: A Latin variant, also associated with "heaven" and "the moon."
- Celina: Another Latin variant, sharing the same celestial connotations.
- Seline: Similar to Celina, a Latin name meaning “heaven; the moon”
- Salena: A beautiful name meaning “moon” of Arabic and Indian origin.
- Sela: A short and sweet Greek name, also referring to the moon.
- Solana: A Spanish name meaning "sunlight," offering a contrasting yet equally radiant option.
- Zelina: A name with an appealing sound, though its exact meaning is less defined.
Other variations include: Caleen, Caleena, Calina, Celie, Cellina, Saleena, Salina, Selia, Selie, Selinda, Selenna, Selyna, Selyne, and Sena.
Siblings of Selena
Parents who chose the name Selena for their daughters also frequently chose the following names for their other children:
- Faith: Representing devotion and trust, a name of English origin.
- Dominic: A Latin name signifying "of the Lord."
- Alexis: A Greek name meaning "defender."
- Joshua: Hebrew for “God is salvation.”
- Eric: Scandinavian for “everlasting ruler.”
- David: The popular Hebrew name meaning “beloved.”
Final Thoughts on Selena
Selena is a name that embodies beauty, history, and cultural significance. Its association with the moon lends it an air of mystery and enchantment, while its connection to Selena Quintanilla-Pérez infuses it with a sense of vibrancy and enduring legacy. For those seeking a name that is both timeless and meaningful, Selena remains a compelling choice, a name as radiant and captivating as the moon itself.