Běla

Etymology

Běla is a feminine given name of Czech origin. Deriving from the Old Slavic root *bělŭ meaning "white", Běla carries connotations of clarity and brightness. Linguistically, it is the Czech analog of Italian Bianca and German Blanka, all stemming from the same conceptual root.

Historical and Cultural Significance

The name is related to the Yiddish feminine names Baila, Beyle, and Beylke, highlighting the shared Slavic influence on Ashkenazi Jewish naming traditions. In Czech culture, the name day for Běla is celebrated on January 21.

Notable Bearers

Several Czech women have carried the name, contributing to the arts, sciences, and social life. Among them are the artist and photographer Běla Kolářová, swimmer Běla Hlaváčková, politician and doctor Běla Hejná, actress Běla Jurdová, and the model Běla Šarayová. In history, the name appears as early as the medieval era in Latinized forms such as Bjela Hrabková.

• Meaning: white
• Origin: Old Slavic, Czech
• Type: feminine given name
• Usage Regions: Czech Republic
• Variant Forms: Baila (Yiddish), Beyle (Yiddish), Beylke (Yiddish)