Sela Name: Complete Etymology, Meaning & Popularity Analysis
Summary
Sela is a Hebrew name meaning 'rock' or 'cliff', symbolizing strength and stability. It evolved from ancient Hebrew through Aramaic and Latin, maintaining its essence over time. The name has biblical relevance, as it is mentioned in connection with Edom. Its usage has been prevalent in Jewish culture, and it remains a unique choice in modern naming practices.
Etymology & Cultural Background of "Sela"
Pronunciation
/ˈsiːlə/
Origin
Hebrew
Etymology
The name Sela originates from the Hebrew word 'סֶלַע', which means 'rock' or 'cliff'. It is often associated with strength and stability.
Meaning
rock, cliff
Language Evolution
Hebrew: סֶלַע, Aramaic: סֶלַע, Latin: Sela
Biblical Background
Sela is mentioned in the Bible as a place, particularly in the context of Edom, and is associated with the rock formations in the region.
Historical Usage
The name gained popularity in various cultures, particularly in Jewish communities, due to its biblical significance and favorable connotations.
Variants & Derivatives
Selah, Selaiah
Modern Popularity & Image
In contemporary times, Sela is perceived as a unique and strong name, often appreciated for its biblical roots and simplicity.
Famous People
Sela Ward, an acclaimed American actress, Sela Tetik, a notable Israeli figure
📊 Sela Name Trend Analysis
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
Explore More Sela Name Visualizations
✨ Sela Name Meaning & Significance
Popularity Trend
Less Common name with 81 peak births in 2000
Geographic Spread
Popular across 8 US states, with strongest presence in California
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 5 different American generations with varying popularity
🔊 Same Pronunciation Names for "Sela" - Complete Guide (4 Names)
Discover the ultimate list of homophone names and same pronunciation names that sound identical to "Sela". These names share the same pronunciation but may have different spellings, offering alternative options for parents seeking similar-sounding names. Whether you're looking for American or British pronunciation variations, this comprehensive guide includes 4 carefully curated names that maintain the same phonetic sound.
Why explore same pronunciation names? Many parents search for homophone names to find alternative spellings that might be more unique or culturally significant. This ultimate list covers both American and British pronunciation patterns, ensuring you find the perfect variation of "Sela" that fits your preferences.
Historical Birth Statistics for the Name "Sela"
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History of "Sela"
"Sela" Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Total Names |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Girl | 9591st of 12526 | 17 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Girl | 15137th of 19264 | 13 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Girl | 7931st of 27321 | 141 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Girl | 3154th of 35406 | 790 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Girl | 4814th of 30306 | 338 |
Regional Popularity of "Sela" by Generation for Male Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
Regional Popularity of "Sela" by Generation for Female Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - |
100.00% 5194th/5194 |
85.91% 5427th/6317 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
88.26% 4044th/4582 |
66.54% 3436th/5164 |
66.44% 4859th/7313 |
33.22% 2479th/7463 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- |
75.60% 3392nd/4487 |
- |
70.49% 4424th/6276 |
State-by-State Popularity of "Sela"
This map shows the relative popularity of "Sela" across states, calculated by dividing the number of births with this name in each state by the total births in that state. This methodology provides a standardized measure of popularity regardless of state population size.
Comprehensive Regional & Generational Popularity Trends of "Sela" in the United States
The name Sela is most popular in California, USA across all generations. It ranks highest as a Girl name among the Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) generation in the West region. Recent 3-year trends show this Girl name is maintaining steady popularity, while the 25-year trend indicates it has been relatively stable. From 2020-2022, Sela has been stalled for female in MidWest, stalled for female in Northeast, stalled for female in South, stalled for female in West. The long-term 25-year analysis reveals it has been stalled for female in MidWest, stalled for female in Northeast, stalled for female in South, stalled for female in West. Across generations, 'Sela' has shown interesting popularity patterns: Among the Baby Boomers (1946-1964), it ranked 9591st out of 12526 names. Among the Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980), it ranked 15137th out of 19264 names. Among the Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996), it ranked 7931st out of 27321 names. Among the Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012), it ranked 3154th out of 35406 names. Among the Generation Alpha (2013-2024), it ranked 4814th out of 30306 names. Discover how the name 'Sela' has evolved through American history with our comprehensive regional and generational analysis.