Origin
The name Mariela originates from Latin-based languages, specifically stemming from 'Maria' with the suffix '-ela' which is a diminutive form. It is a variant of the name Maria, which has biblical significance as the name of the Virgin Mary. While not originally native to Australia, the name has been adopted in multicultural communities within the country, especially among individuals with Latin, European, or Catholic backgrounds.
Meaning
Literal translation: 'Related to Maria' or 'little Maria'. In the Australian context, it often signifies grace, purity, and devotion, reflecting its religious roots.
Pronunciation
/ˌmær.iˈɛl.ə/ (Australian English pronunciation: /ˌmær.iˈɛl.ə/ with stress on the third syllable) , emphasizing clear pronunciation of vowels and soft 'r'.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Mariela (original)
- Mariella
- Mariah
- Mara
Nicknames
- Mari
- Ela
- Lia
Name Days
- 12 September (Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows, recognised by Catholic communities in Australia)
- 8 September (Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary)
- 15 August (Assumption of Mary)
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with mariela:
- Anna and Mariela
- Sophia and Mariela
- Eleanor and Mariela
Fun Facts
- Mariela is a relatively modern variant gaining popularity in multicultural Australia.
- The name has been borne by various Latin American singers and actresses, influencing its recognition in Australia.
- Mariela can be linked to the Spanish and Italian-speaking communities within Australia.
- The name frequently appears in Australian multicultural festivals celebrating Latin and European heritage.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name mariela:
- compassionate
- graceful
- devout
- artistic
Aesthetic Qualities
Elegant and soft in appearance, with a balanced symmetry that is visually appealing in written form. Its melodic quality makes it suitable for artistic and poetic contexts.
Geographical Distribution
More common in urban centres such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, particularly within communities of Latin American, Italian, and Spanish descent.
Numerological Significance
Name number: 7, associated with introspection, spiritual awareness, and analytical thinking — traits often attributed positively in Australian cultural contexts.
Astrological Connections
The name is linked to Virgo (August 23 – September 22), highlighting characteristics like practicality, attention to detail, and service orientation, aligning with the name’s gentle and conscientious connotations.
Historical Context
Although not historically prominent in traditional Australian history, the name has gained presence through migration and cultural integration, notably among Latin American, Mediterranean, and European communities. It has been adopted in popular culture through artists and fictional characters in Australian media.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name adapts well into many languages and scripts, with common variations in Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese. It maintains phonetic consistency across these languages, facilitating ease of recognition and pronunciation.
Famous People Named mariela
- Mariela Castro (Cuban politician and activist)
- Mariela Shaker (Egyptian singer, popular among Arabic-speaking Australians)
- Mariela Carvalho (Brazilian-Australian academic)
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
---|---|
2024 | 1 |
2017 | 1 |