Estela

Star

Estela is a feminine name used in Spanish and Portuguese, with a meaning that leads back to the Latin word for “star”. It belongs to the same name family as Estelle and Stella. Its celestial image is simple enough to feel understated: a point of light, rather than an elaborate mythological story. In Spanish, it has three syllables, es-TE-la, with the middle syllable stressed. The e vowels stay clear and steady rather than becoming the English “ay” sound. The st gives the centre a little definition, while the final la softens the finish. That balance may appeal if you like a flowing name with a distinct beat. There is another association for Spanish speakers: the word estela can mean a wake or trail left behind something moving. That word has a different derivation from the name’s star meaning. The image of a lingering trace can still be a poetic association, but it is not a second translation of the name.

Etymology: A Spanish and Portuguese form of Estelle, ultimately from Latin stella, meaning “star”.