Declining since 2014, #10,917 for girls today.
Popularity of Neala since 1938
Babies named Neala per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1930s | 5 |
| 1940s | 43 |
| 1950s | 49 |
| 1960s | 20 |
| 1970s | 28 |
| 1980s | 12 |
| 1990s | 6 |
| 2000s | 150 |
| 2010s | 229 |
| 2020s | 53 |
Meaning & origin
Neala is a rare feminine name that first appeared in U.S. records in 1938, but its use remained sporadic for decades. It saw its peak in 2009, when the name reached its highest rank, though even then it was uncommon. Since 2014, its popularity has been falling, and today only about 1 in 200,908 newborns receives this name. Neala has never charted among the top 1,000 names, reflecting its status as a distinctive choice. While no top states have recorded significant usage, its Irish roots give it a Celtic charm. The name's similarity to more common names like Neve and Niamh may appeal to parents seeking a unique yet familiar-sounding option.
Neala is a modern feminine variant of Neal, itself an Anglicized form of the Irish name Niall. Niall's etymology is debated; it may derive from Old Irish 'niadh' meaning 'champion' or from 'nél' meaning 'cloud'. Neala emerged in the 20th century as a feminine counterpart, following the pattern of names like Patricia and Pamela.
“Neala” around the world
Where Neala lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
Ireland
8
babies in 2025
Sources: CSO Ireland (Ireland).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Nealie, Lee, Nell
Variants: Neale, Neele, Niall (masculine)
Sibling names for Neala
Names that share Neala's style, for a brother or sister.
