Meaning, origin, history
Angela is a feminine given name of Latin origin. Its meaning and history are deeply rooted in Christian tradition.
The name Angela comes from the Latin word "angelus," which means "angel." It was first used as a given name in the 15th century, but it gained popularity during the Renaissance period when many people adopted names with religious connotations.
In the Middle Ages, Angela da Foligno was an Italian mystic who had visions of angels. She became known as Santa Angela and is now considered a saint by the Catholic Church. This may have contributed to the name's adoption as a given name around this time.
Angela has also been associated with several notable figures throughout history. Angela Burdett-Coutts was a philanthropist in 19th-century England, while Angela Davis is an American political activist known for her work against racial injustice and prison reform.
Today, Angela remains a popular choice for parents looking for a name with spiritual significance or simply one that sounds elegant and distinctive. Its variations include Angie, Angelina, and Angela-Marie, among others. Despite its origins, Angela has transcended religious boundaries and is now used worldwide regardless of cultural or religious background.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Angela since 1880
Total births
671,322
Total since 1880
Peak year
1971
25,901 births
in 2023
1,205
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-3%
→
vs previous 5 years