Estella

What does Estella mean?

Estella draws its central meaning from the Latin word stella, which means star. The name evokes the simple and resonant image of a star in the sky, an object of light and guidance. In this sense Estella carries the idea of brightness, presence and a gentle kind of radiance.

As a given name Estella feels both lyrical and approachable. It has a slightly vintage, literary air while remaining usable today. The sound is elegant and warm, suggesting someone with poise and a quietly luminous personality. If you are thinking of names such as Estelle or Stella, Estella sits neatly between them, offering a longer, slightly more formal option.

Historical Context

Estella emerged as an English given name in the 18th and 19th centuries drawing on the Latin stella, meaning star. The Latin root was used in various forms across Europe. In French the related form Estelle became common, while Stella was used in Italy and later adopted into English.

The name gained particular literary visibility through works of the 19th century and later, where authors chose names with classical or poetic resonance. Estella’s slightly formal ending and clear connection to stella gave it a refined, somewhat romantic appeal. Over time Estella has been used both as a full given name and as a more elaborate alternative to the shorter Stella. Its usage has been steady rather than extreme, making it familiar without becoming overly common.

Popularity of Estella over time

In 2025, Estella was given to 581 girls in the US. Estella has risen sharply over the last 20 years, and is now an uncommon girls' name in the US.

What do parents think of Estella?