E
Feminine
English
Meaning & History
Etymology and Meaning
Estella is a Latinate form of the French name Estelle, which ultimately derives from the Latin word stella, meaning "star." The name gained recognition in the English-speaking world through its use in Charles Dickens' novel Great Expectations (1860), where the character Estella Havisham is the adopted daughter of Miss Havisham and the object of Pip's affection. Estella's cold and haughty demeanor reflects her upbringing, making her a memorable literary figure. The name has since enjoyed moderate popularity, particularly in English-speaking countries.Notable Bearers
Beyond literature, the name has been used for various real-life figures, though perhaps less prominently. Notable bearers include Estella Warren, a Canadian actress and model known for roles in films such as Planet of the Apes (2001), and Estella Taylor, an American actress of the silent film era. Additionally, Estella Agsteribbe, a Dutch gymnast who competed in the 1928 Summer OlympicsGeographical Names
Estella is also the name of a suburb of Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia, and the town of Estella (also known as Estella-Lizarra) in Navarre, Spain, though this place name may have a separate origin.Utymology and Usage
The name Estella is used predominantly in English, often seen as a more elaborate variant of Estelle. Its starry meaning lends it a celestial quality, making it a choice for parents seeking a name with a romantic or vintage feel. Related forms include the diminutive Essie, and variants in other languages such as Spanish Estela and Estelita, Italian Stella, Catalan Estel, Slovak Stela, and French Estelle.- Meaning: Star
- Origin: Latinate form of Estelle, from Latin stella
- Usage: English
- Related Names: Estelle, Stella, Essie, Estela
Related Names
Sources: Wiktionary — Estella