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Ella

Girl name · 4,928 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Ella: 4,928 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 341 births in 2015.

Derived from the Greek Helene, meaning "torch" or "light," and possibly linked to the Greek word for "bright" or "shining," Ella is a short, elegant name with ancient roots. The most famous bearer is the American jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald, the "First Lady of Song," whose career spanned six decades. Another notable Ella is Australian actress Ella Scott Lynch. The name also shares its root with Helen, which connects to places like St. Helena and the Hellenic Republic. A sweet and enduring favourite, Ella has remained a top choice in Scotland for decades, and it also appears as a standalone variant of Eleanor, making it a versatile and timeless pick for parents seeking a name that feels both classic and fresh.