Rising since 1987, #1,927 for girls today.
Popularity of Isela since 1926
Babies named Isela per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1920s | 12 |
| 1930s | 22 |
| 1940s | 67 |
| 1950s | 144 |
| 1960s | 232 |
| 1970s | 903 |
| 1980s | 704 |
| 1990s | 1,153 |
| 2000s | 1,312 |
| 2010s | 776 |
| 2020s | 600 |
Meaning & origin
Isela entered U.S. naming records in 1926, and has been used steadily ever since, with a pronounced rise beginning around 1987. The name reached its peak rank in 1998, and as of 2025 it stands at rank 1,927, with approximately 1 in 16,073 baby girls receiving the name that year. While it is used throughout the United States, it has been most popular in Arizona, California, and Texas, reflecting its strong Spanish heritage. The name's trajectory shows a gradual upward trend over recent decades, making it a distinctive but not unfamiliar choice for families seeking a name with historical depth and cultural resonance.
Isela is the Spanish form of Gisela, a name of Germanic origin derived from gīsal, meaning 'pledge' or 'hostage,' and interpreted as 'pledged to God.' The name Gisela was common among medieval European royalty, notably borne by a daughter of Charlemagne. In Spanish-speaking countries, Isela gained popularity in the 20th century, particularly in the southwestern United States among Hispanic communities.
Where Isela is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Isa, Ela, Lala
Sibling names for Isela
Names that share Isela's style, for a brother or sister.
