Rising since 1988, #13,208 for girls today.
Popularity of Ornella since 1968
Babies named Ornella per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1960s | 5 |
| 1970s | 5 |
| 1980s | 0 |
| 1990s | 46 |
| 2000s | 56 |
| 2010s | 82 |
| 2020s | 46 |
Meaning & origin
Ornella is a distinctive Italian name that entered the U.S. naming landscape in 1968, when it was first recorded in Social Security data. Though it has never ranked among the top names, it saw its peak popularity in 2013, reflecting a broader interest in Italian-inspired names during that era. The name is currently on an upward trajectory, having risen in usage since 1988, though it remains rare with a 2025 rank of 13,208 and an incidence of 1 in 267,878 births. Ornella's appeal lies in its melodic sound and connection to Italian culture, making it a choice for parents seeking a name that feels both elegant and uncommon.
Ornella is derived from the Italian word 'ornello,' meaning 'flowering ash tree.' The name was popularized by the Italian actress Ornella Muti, born in 1955. It has been used in Italy since the mid-20th century and gained some international recognition through her fame. In recent decades, it has spread to other countries, especially among families with Italian heritage, though it remains relatively rare outside Italy.
“Ornella” around the world
Where Ornella lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
60
babies in 2024
Sources: INSEE (France).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Orne, Nella, Nellina
Variants: Ornela
Sibling names for Ornella
Names that share Ornella's style, for a brother or sister.
