Graciela is a feminine given name of Spanish origin. It is composed of two elements: "gracia," which means "grace" or "favor," and "ela," a diminutive suffix that denotes endearment or intimacy. Therefore, the name Graciela translates to "little grace" or "graceful one."
The name Graciela has been popular in Spanish-speaking countries for centuries, with its earliest known usage dating back to the 17th century. It is often associated with Spanish nobility and has been passed down through generations of families in Spain and Latin America.
One notable figure named Graciela was Mexican actress Graciela Fernández (1903-2005), who was popular during the Golden Age of Mexican cinema. Her work helped pave the way for future generations of female actors in Mexico.
Today, Graciela remains a charming and timeless name choice for parents looking to honor their Spanish heritage or simply appreciate its elegant sound. While it may not be as common as some other Spanish names, such as Maria or Sofia, Graciela stands out due to its unique combination of meaning and sound.
The name Graciela has seen a significant rise and fall in popularity over the past century in the United States. Between 1916 and 1922, there were fewer than 15 births per year with this name. However, from 1927 onwards, the number of births began to increase steadily.
The peak of popularity for Graciela was reached between 1946 and 1959, with over 200 births per year during these years. The highest point was in 1948, with a total of 125 births that year. This trend continued until the mid-1960s, when there were consistently around 200 births per year.
However, from the late 1970s onwards, the popularity of Graciela started to decline significantly. Between 1980 and 2002, there were fewer than 300 births per year with this name. This trend continued into the new millennium, with only a few dozen births per year since then.
As of 2023, there have been a total of 16,100 births named Graciela in the United States over the past century. Despite its decline in popularity in recent years, this name remains a classic choice for parents looking to honor their Hispanic heritage or simply choose a unique and beautiful name for their daughter.