Maricela

Combination of María and Celia

Maricela is a feminine Spanish name formed from María and Celia. The two names create a full name with a recognisable Mari- opening and a lighter, lilting finish. Maricela is also used in Mexico. In Latin American Spanish, say mah-ree-SEH-lah, with the emphasis on the third syllable. The c sounds like s; in parts of Spain it has the th sound of English “thin”. The four-beat rhythm gives Maricela room to unfold, but the clear vowels keep it buoyant. Its graceful -ela ending lends it a softly elegant, classic feel. The Spanish spelling needs no accent mark.

Etymology: A Spanish blend of María and Celia. María belongs to the Miryam name family, whose original meaning remains uncertain. Celia is linked through the Roman family name Caelius to Latin caelum, “sky” or “heaven”; this does not give the combined name a single literal translation.