Adela

Girl Name
Origin:germanic
Pronunciation:/əˈdeɪ.lə/

Adela: a female name of Germanic origin meaning "This name derives from the Old High German element “adal” (Ancient Germanic: *aþalaz; Old English: æthel), meaning “noble,” native German short form of names containing the name element “adal". It derives from the Germanic word "*aþalaz > adal > æthel > ADELA".

Parents seeking a meaningful feminine name often discover Adela, drawn to its Germanic heritage and beautiful significance: "This name derives from the Old High German element “adal” (Ancient Germanic: *aþalaz; Old English: æthel), meaning “noble,” native German short form of names containing the name element “adal". This name offers a perfect blend of cultural depth and personal meaning, making it a timeless choice for families around the world.

Quick Facts About Adela

Quick facts about Adela
OriginGermanic
GenderGirl name
PopularityModerately popular

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name derives from the Old High German element “adal” (Ancient Germanic: *aþalaz; Old English: æthel), meaning “noble,” native German short form of names containing the name element “adal.” The name is also directly linked to the names Adelaide, Adelheid, Adelaida. Saint Adela was one of two princesses, the daughters of Saint Dagobert II. Adela was married and had a child by her husband, Alberic. Alberic died within a few years of the marriage. Despite multiple marriage offers, she chose to take up holy orders. Saint Adelina († 1125) was a French Benedictine nun honored as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

*aþalaz > adal > æthel > ADELA

How to Pronounce Adela

Adela is pronounced /əˈdeɪ.lə/(German)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Ad-el-a
  2. Say it like: "AD-EL-A"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Adela enjoys international appeal, used in 13 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, romanian, basque, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.

englishromanianbasquespanishnorwegianicelandicswedishdanishfinnishpolishdutchgermanancient germanic
Frequently Asked Questions About Adela
What does the name Adela mean?
Adela means "This name derives from the Old High German element “adal” (Ancient Germanic: *aþalaz; Old English: æthel), meaning “noble,” native German short form of names containing the name element “adal.” The name is also directly linked to the names Adelaide, Adelheid, Adelaida. Saint Adela was one of two princesses, the daughters of Saint Dagobert II. Adela was married and had a child by her husband, Alberic. Alberic died within a few years of the marriage. Despite multiple marriage offers, she chose to take up holy orders. Saint Adelina († 1125) was a French Benedictine nun honored as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church.". The name comes from *aþalaz > adal > æthel > ADELA. This germanic name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Adela for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old High German element “adal” (Ancient Germanic: *aþalaz; Old English: æthel), meaning “noble,” native German short form of names containing the name element “adal.” The name is also directly linked to the names Adelaide, Adelheid, Adelaida. Saint Adela was one of two princesses, the daughters of Saint Dagobert II. Adela was married and had a child by her husband, Alberic. Alberic died within a few years of the marriage. Despite multiple marriage offers, she chose to take up holy orders. Saint Adelina († 1125) was a French Benedictine nun honored as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Adela's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Adela?
Adela is a germanic name. The name traces back to *aþalaz > adal > æthel > ADELA. From its germanic roots, Adela spread to become common in english, romanian, basque, spanish and other cultures. The germanic meaning "This name derives from the Old High German element “adal” (Ancient Germanic: *aþalaz; Old English: æthel), meaning “noble,” native German short form of names containing the name element “adal.” The name is also directly linked to the names Adelaide, Adelheid, Adelaida. Saint Adela was one of two princesses, the daughters of Saint Dagobert II. Adela was married and had a child by her husband, Alberic. Alberic died within a few years of the marriage. Despite multiple marriage offers, she chose to take up holy orders. Saint Adelina († 1125) was a French Benedictine nun honored as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Adela a boy or girl name?
Adela is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In germanic tradition, Adela has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Old High German element “adal” (Ancient Germanic: *aþalaz; Old English: æthel), meaning “noble,” native German short form of names containing the name element “adal.” The name is also directly linked to the names Adelaide, Adelheid, Adelaida. Saint Adela was one of two princesses, the daughters of Saint Dagobert II. Adela was married and had a child by her husband, Alberic. Alberic died within a few years of the marriage. Despite multiple marriage offers, she chose to take up holy orders. Saint Adelina († 1125) was a French Benedictine nun honored as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Adela?
Adela is pronounced "/əˈdeɪ.lə/". This pronunciation follows de language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Adela is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, romanian, basque, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with germanic names, listening to a native speaker say Adela can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Adela?
Adela is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Adela offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Adela's popularity may vary between germanic communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old High German element “adal” (Ancient Germanic: *aþalaz; Old English: æthel), meaning “noble,” native German short form of names containing the name element “adal.” The name is also directly linked to the names Adelaide, Adelheid, Adelaida. Saint Adela was one of two princesses, the daughters of Saint Dagobert II. Adela was married and had a child by her husband, Alberic. Alberic died within a few years of the marriage. Despite multiple marriage offers, she chose to take up holy orders. Saint Adelina († 1125) was a French Benedictine nun honored as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Adela holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Adela commonly used?
Adela spans multiple cultures, including english, romanian, basque, and 10 other traditions. The name originated in germanic culture and spread as people migrated and cultures exchanged ideas. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Adela, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Old High German element “adal” (Ancient Germanic: *aþalaz; Old English: æthel), meaning “noble,” native German short form of names containing the name element “adal.” The name is also directly linked to the names Adelaide, Adelheid, Adelaida. Saint Adela was one of two princesses, the daughters of Saint Dagobert II. Adela was married and had a child by her husband, Alberic. Alberic died within a few years of the marriage. Despite multiple marriage offers, she chose to take up holy orders. Saint Adelina († 1125) was a French Benedictine nun honored as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Adela into their naming traditions. A child named Adela will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Adela is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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