Manuela

Meaning & origin

Manuela is a feminine name with deep religious roots, derived from the Hebrew Immanuel, meaning 'God is with us.' It has been consistently used in Spanish-, Portuguese-, Italian-, and German-speaking communities, though it has never reached the top tiers of U.S. popularity. In 2025, it ranked 2,564, with a frequency of 1 in 23,636 births. Its peak year in the United States was 1909, reflecting early 20th-century immigration patterns. The name has remained remarkably stable in usage over the decades, neither surging nor fading dramatically. Top states for Manuela include Massachusetts, Florida, and California, areas with significant Hispanic populations. While not a common choice nationally, Manuela carries a classic, international feel and a strong spiritual meaning that appeals to many families.

Manuela is the feminine form of Manuel, which itself is a Spanish and Portuguese variant of Emmanuel, from the Hebrew name Immanuel, meaning 'God is with us' (Isaiah 7:14). The name has been used in Iberian cultures since the Middle Ages, often in honor of the biblical prophecy. It spread to other European languages, including Italian and German, and remains common in Latin America and among Hispanic communities in the United States.