Tekla: a female name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Theókleia (Θεόκλεια) Thékla (Θέκλα),” composed of two elements: “theós (θεός)” (divine, a deity, a god, God) plus “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory)".It derives from the Greek word "theós kléos > Theókleia > Thékla".
Parents seeking a meaningful feminine name often discover Tekla, drawn to its Greek heritage and beautiful significance: "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Theókleia (Θεόκλεια) Thékla (Θέκλα),” composed of two elements: “theós (θεός)” (divine, a deity, a god, God) plus “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory)". 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 Tekla
Quick facts about Tekla
Origin
Greek
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Moderately 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 Ancient Greek “Theókleia (Θεόκλεια) Thékla (Θέκλα),” composed of two elements: “theós (θεός)” (divine, a deity, a god, God) plus “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory). In turn, the name means “glory of God.” Thecla was a saint of the early Christian Church and a reported follower of Paul the Apostle. The only known record of her comes from the apocryphal Acts of Paul and Thecla, probably composed in the 2nd-century.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
theós kléos > Theókleia > Thékla
How to Pronounce Tekla
Tekla is pronounced /ˈtɛk.lə/(English)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Tek-la
Say it like: "TEK-LA"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
Usage & Popularity
Tekla enjoys international appeal, used in 14 different linguistic and cultural contexts including latvian, norwegian, icelandic, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.
Tekla means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Theókleia (Θεόκλεια) Thékla (Θέκλα),” composed of two elements: “theós (θεός)” (divine, a deity, a god, God) plus “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory). In turn, the name means “glory of God.” Thecla was a saint of the early Christian Church and a reported follower of Paul the Apostle. The only known record of her comes from the apocryphal Acts of Paul and Thecla, probably composed in the 2nd-century.". The name comes from theós kléos > Theókleia > Thékla. In its original form, the name derives from theós (θεός) kléos (κλέος) Theókleia (Θεόκλεια) Thékla (Θέκλα). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Tekla for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Theókleia (Θεόκλεια) Thékla (Θέκλα),” composed of two elements: “theós (θεός)” (divine, a deity, a god, God) plus “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory). In turn, the name means “glory of God.” Thecla was a saint of the early Christian Church and a reported follower of Paul the Apostle. The only known record of her comes from the apocryphal Acts of Paul and Thecla, probably composed in the 2nd-century." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Tekla's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like RELIGION (SAINTS), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Tekla?
Tekla is a greek name. The name traces back to theós kléos > Theókleia > Thékla. The original form theós (θεός) kléos (κλέος) Theókleia (Θεόκλεια) Thékla (Θέκλα) shows the name's roots in its native language. From its greek roots, Tekla spread to become common in latvian, norwegian, icelandic, old norse and other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Theókleia (Θεόκλεια) Thékla (Θέκλα),” composed of two elements: “theós (θεός)” (divine, a deity, a god, God) plus “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory). In turn, the name means “glory of God.” Thecla was a saint of the early Christian Church and a reported follower of Paul the Apostle. The only known record of her comes from the apocryphal Acts of Paul and Thecla, probably composed in the 2nd-century." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Tekla a boy or girl name?
Tekla is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In greek tradition, Tekla has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Theókleia (Θεόκλεια) Thékla (Θέκλα),” composed of two elements: “theós (θεός)” (divine, a deity, a god, God) plus “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory). In turn, the name means “glory of God.” Thecla was a saint of the early Christian Church and a reported follower of Paul the Apostle. The only known record of her comes from the apocryphal Acts of Paul and Thecla, probably composed in the 2nd-century." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Tekla?
Tekla is pronounced "/ˈtɛk.lə/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Tekla is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in latvian, norwegian, icelandic, 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 greek names, listening to a native speaker say Tekla can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root theós kléos > Theókleia > Thékla influences how Tekla sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Tekla?
Tekla is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Tekla offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Tekla's popularity may vary between greek communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Theókleia (Θεόκλεια) Thékla (Θέκλα),” composed of two elements: “theós (θεός)” (divine, a deity, a god, God) plus “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory). In turn, the name means “glory of God.” Thecla was a saint of the early Christian Church and a reported follower of Paul the Apostle. The only known record of her comes from the apocryphal Acts of Paul and Thecla, probably composed in the 2nd-century." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Tekla holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Tekla commonly used?
Tekla spans multiple cultures, including latvian, norwegian, icelandic, and 11 other traditions. Though greek in origin, Tekla found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Tekla, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Theókleia (Θεόκλεια) Thékla (Θέκλα),” composed of two elements: “theós (θεός)” (divine, a deity, a god, God) plus “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory). In turn, the name means “glory of God.” Thecla was a saint of the early Christian Church and a reported follower of Paul the Apostle. The only known record of her comes from the apocryphal Acts of Paul and Thecla, probably composed in the 2nd-century." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Tekla into their naming traditions. A child named Tekla 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, Tekla is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Tekla?
Tekla carries associations with RELIGION (SAINTS). These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Theókleia (Θεόκλεια) Thékla (Θέκλα),” composed of two elements: “theós (θεός)” (divine, a deity, a god, God) plus “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory). In turn, the name means “glory of God.” Thecla was a saint of the early Christian Church and a reported follower of Paul the Apostle. The only known record of her comes from the apocryphal Acts of Paul and Thecla, probably composed in the 2nd-century." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Tekla originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Tekla sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Tekla often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In latvian communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.