Meaning, origin, history
Celia is a feminine given name of Latin origin. It comes from the Latin word "caelum," which means "heaven" or "sky." The name Celia has been used throughout history, with notable figures such as the Roman poet Gaius Valerius Catullus's sister, who was named Celia.
The name Celia was also popularized in literature and art. In John Fletcher's play "Celia, the shepherdess," the main character is a shepherdess named Celia who falls in love with a disguised nobleman. Additionally, the 18th-century English poet Alexander Pope wrote an ode to his friend and patroness, Lady Mary Wortley Montagu, using the pseudonym Celia.
Today, Celia remains a popular choice for parents seeking a unique yet timeless name for their daughters. Its Latin origins and association with heaven give it a celestial and ethereal quality, while its historical usage in literature lends it an air of sophistication and elegance.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Celia since 1880
Total births
55,902
Total since 1880
Peak year
1915
853 births
in 2023
330
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+14%
↗
vs previous 5 years