"yielding to prayer, easily entreated"
Origin: Latin
Language: English
Arabella
Pronunciation: [ ar-uhb-EHL-uh ]
Girl Name
#206 Most Popular
Rising
4 Syllables
Four syllables of vintage elegance and aristocratic charm
English
Scottish
Italian
American
Elegant
Classic
Royal
Literary
Vintage
Meaning & Origin
"beautiful"
Origin: Latin (bella element)
Language: English
The Story of Arabella
Arabella is thought to derive from the Latin 'orabilis', meaning 'yielding to prayer' or 'easily entreated'. It may also be a variant of Annabella (from Hebrew Hannah + Latin bella). The name appeared in Scotland as early as the 12th century and was used by aristocratic families. It gained literary prestige through its use in poetry and 18th-century novels as a name for refined, beautiful heroines.
Arabella surged in popularity in the 2010s as parents sought an alternative to Isabella that felt both classic and distinctive. Its use in the Arctic Monkeys' 2013 song 'Arabella' introduced the name to a new generation, and royal associations (Princess Arabella in fiction and aristocratic families) have kept it fashionable.
Arabella has deep roots in Scottish and English aristocracy, with historical bearers including members of the Stuart royal family. In Italian-speaking regions, the name Arabella has been used since the Renaissance, carried by noble families.
Fun Facts
- The Arctic Monkeys song 'Arabella' (2013) significantly boosted the name's popularity among millennials
- Arabella Stuart (1575-1615) was a claimant to the English throne, cousin to James I
- Richard Strauss composed an opera titled 'Arabella' (1933), cementing the name's romantic operatic associations
Arabella in Other Languages
French
Arabelle
German
Arabella
Italian
Arabella
Russian
Арабелла
Spanish
Arabela
Famous People Named Arabella
A
Arabella Stuart
Royalty
1575
English noblewoman and claimant to the English throne, cousin of King James I
A
Arabella (Arctic Monkeys song) Fictional
Musician
Character featured in the Arctic Monkeys' 2013 song from the album AM, sparking a baby name trend
Quick Facts
- Gender
- Girl
- Syllables
- 4
- Popularity Rank
- #206
- Total SSA Count
- 1,476
- Cultural Origins
- English Scottish Italian American
- Pronunciation
- Easy
- Formality
- Formal
- Cross-Cultural Ease
- Moderate
Alternative Spellings
Common Nicknames
Ara
Bella
Belle
Arabel
Pairs Well With
Arabella Rose
Arabella Jane
Arabella Claire
Arabella Grace
Arabella Mae
Arabella Faith
Arabella Louise
Sibling Names
Similar Names
Playground Safety
Kid-Friendly
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Frequently Asked Questions About Arabella
What does the name Arabella mean?
"yielding to prayer, easily entreated" (from Latin). "beautiful" (from Latin (bella element)). Arabella is thought to derive from the Latin 'orabilis', meaning 'yielding to prayer' or 'easily entreated'. It may also be a variant of Annabella (from Hebrew Hannah + Latin bella). The name appeared in Scotland as early as the 12th century and was used by aristocratic families. It gained literary prestige through its use in poetry and 18th-century novels as a name for refined, beautiful heroines.
What is the origin of the name Arabella?
Arabella has Latin, Latin (bella element), English, Scottish, Italian, and American origins. In Latin, it means "yielding to prayer, easily entreated". In Latin (bella element), it means "beautiful".
Is Arabella a boy or girl name?
Arabella is primarily used as a girl name.
How do you pronounce Arabella?
Arabella is pronounced ar-uhb-EHL-uh.
How popular is the name Arabella?
Arabella is currently ranked #206 in popularity for girl names in the United States.
What are common nicknames for Arabella?
Common nicknames for Arabella include Ara, Bella, Belle, and Arabel.
What are good middle names for Arabella?
Popular middle name pairings include Arabella Rose, Arabella Jane, Arabella Claire, Arabella Grace, Arabella Mae, Arabella Faith, and Arabella Louise.
What are good sibling names for Arabella?
Names that pair well with Arabella as siblings include Cecily, Isadora, Beatrice, Sebastian, Felix, and Edmund.
How many syllables does Arabella have?
Arabella has 4 syllables, making it distinctive and rhythmic.
Is Arabella a common or rare name?
Arabella is a popular name, ranked #206 for girls. It is well-known without being overused.
About the Name Arabella
Arabella is a girl name with English, Scottish, Italian, and American origins . The name means "yielding to prayer, easily entreated" in Latin .
Arabella is currently ranked #206 in popularity for girl names in the United States.
The name Arabella has 4 syllables and is pronounced ar-uhb-EHL-uh, making it distinctive and memorable.
Common nicknames for Arabella include Ara, Bella, Belle, and Arabel. These shorter forms provide casual alternatives while keeping the elegance of the full name.
Alternative spellings of Arabella include Arabelle . Each spelling variation gives the name a slightly different character while preserving its sound and meaning.