Meaning & History
Della is a female given name primarily used in English. It originated as a diminutive of Adela or Adelaide, though it may also derive from Delia.
Etymology
The name is ultimately a short form of Germanic names formed with the element adal meaning "noble" (from Proto-Germanic *aþalaz). Variants include Addie, Addy 1, and Delia 2.
Historical and Cultural Significance
The root name Adela was popular in medieval Europe, borne by a 7th-century Frankish saint and a daughter of William the Conqueror. However, Della itself gained independent usage in the English-speaking world, particularly in the United States from the 19th century onwards.
Notable Bearers
A famous bearer was American actress and singer Della Reese (1931-2017), known for her roles in film and on television including the series Touched by an Angel. Other notable individuals include Della Au Belatti, a Democratic member of the Hawaii House of Representatives; Della Davidson, a modern dancer and choreographer; and Della Jones, a Welsh opera singer. See the Wikipedia list for complete names.
- Meaning: Diminutive of noble names (Adela/Adelaide); also Delia variant
- Origin: Germanic (via Old German adal “noble”)
- Type: Diminutive/Variant
- Usage: Primarily English
Related Names
Sources: Wikipedia — Della (name)