Isabela is a feminine given name of Spanish origin. It is derived from the Spanish name Isabel, which is itself a variant of the Hebrew name Elizabeth. The name Isabel has been in use since the Middle Ages and was popularized by Queen Isabella I of Castile, who ruled Spain from 1474 to 1504.
The meaning of Isabela, like its root name Elizabeth, is "God is my oath" or "God is my promise". This name has a strong religious connotation and reflects the importance placed on faith and devotion in Spanish culture. Over time, various forms and spellings of the name have emerged, including Isabella, Isabel, Izabela, and Isabela.
In literature and history, several notable figures have borne this name, such as Isabella of France, who was Queen consort of England in the 14th century, and Isabella of Portugal, who became Holy Roman Empress. In art and culture, the Spanish queen's voyages to the Americas inspired Christopher Columbus' expeditions, leading to the naming of many places around the world with the name "Isabela," including Isabela Island in the Galápagos archipelago.
Today, Isabela remains a popular choice for parents seeking a unique yet classic name for their daughter. Its Spanish heritage and regal history make it an attractive option for those looking for a name that combines elegance and cultural significance. Despite its origins dating back centuries, Isabela still feels contemporary and has been embraced by families around the world who appreciate its rich history and meaningful meaning.
The name Isabela has been a popular choice for parents in the United States over the past few decades, with a significant increase in its popularity since the late 1990s. In 1982, there were only 6 births registered with the name Isabela. However, by the year 2000, this number had risen to 259 births, indicating that more parents were choosing this name for their daughters.
The popularity of the name Isabela continued to rise throughout the early 2000s, reaching a peak of 695 births in 2004. This marked a significant increase from the previous year, when there were only 539 births recorded with the name. The high point in popularity was sustained for several years thereafter, with over 600 births each year between 2004 and 2007.
However, after reaching its peak, the popularity of the name Isabela began to decline gradually. Between 2008 and 2013, there were fewer than 500 births recorded each year with this name. The lowest point in recent years was reached in 2014, when there were only 389 births registered.
Despite the decrease in popularity since its peak, Isabela remains a relatively common name in the United States. In 2022, there were 510 births recorded with this name, and it continues to be chosen by parents for their daughters each year.
Overall, the statistics show that Isabela has been a popular choice for parents in the United States over the past few decades. While its popularity has varied over time, it remains a widely-used name today.