Surname Ela - Meaning and Origin

Ela: What does the surname Ela mean?

The last name Ela is of unknown specific origin and meaning, as it is shared by individuals from various cultures and regions globally, including many in Africa, Asia, and Europe. Some sources suggest it may have French or Basque origins, where "Ela" refers to a church or, more generally, a holy place. It could also originate from Middle Eastern regions where it can translate to "God" in Hebrew or from India, where it signifies a cardamom tree in Sanskrit. Similarly, in Polish, "Ela" is a diminutive of the female first name Elżbieta, equivalent to Elizabeth in English. It is also potentially a shortened or variant form of other longer surnames. The diversity of possible origins reflects the complexity and interconnectedness of linguistic and migratory human history. The specific meaning for any individual could vary greatly and may be tied to their personal or familial history, location, or culture.

Ela: Where does the name Ela come from?

The surname Ela is primarily seen in England and United States, but it originated from a variety of sources. This could be English, from the Old Testament name Eli, a Greek variant of Elias or a shortened form of Elijah, or a Polish variant of the name Elias. The English version of the name Ela often comes from the place Earley in Berkshire, anglicized from the original Old English 'Earn leah' referring to an 'eagle's wood'. The Ela name is also connected to a noble family from the county of Wiltshire in the 13th century, bestowed as a hereditary surname to William de Ela, who served King John. Nowadays, apart from England, it is also commonplace in the United States with the name often adjusted upon immigration. A considerable number of people with the surname Ela live in California, New York, and Illinois. In general, though, the Ela surname is relatively rare.

Variations of the surname Ela

There are several variants and spellings of the surname Ela, including Ella, Ele, Elee, Ellah, Elle, Ely, Eley, Elie, and Elly. Spelling variations of surnames were common even within a single family, particularly before spelling became standardized. These differences often arose from regional dialects or phonetic spelling.

Additionally, there are a number of surnames that may share the same origin. The name could derive from the Hebrew 'Eli', a short form of various compound names like Elijah or Eliezer, therefore, surnames like Eli, Elia may also be related. Ela might also be a short form for the Highland clan name MacEalair, from a Gaelic personal name, and thus connected to McAller or McEler.

Furthermore, surnames can also develop from places. The Norman baronial name of D'Ela (from Ayla) is from Normandy.

Please note that the origin, meaning, and related names can vary greatly depending on the specific family's history and geographic location. Looking into a personal genealogy or family history would provide the most accurate and comprehensive insights for the surname Ela.

Famous people with the name Ela

• Grace Ela: She is a famous actress known for her roles in several TV series and movies.
• Silvio Ela: He is a professional footballer renowned in the sports world.
• Jean Pascal Ela: A prolific author, renowned for his works in sociology and political science.
• Maria-Pia De Vito Ela: An acclaimed Italian jazz singer.
• Mario Ela: He is a professional footballer who made his name in the sports world.
• Rigoberta Menchú Tum: Although her surname is not strictly 'Ela,' she is a K'iche' political activist from Guatemala who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1992. Her mother's maiden name is 'Ela'.
• Samantha Ela: A well-known fashion designer making strides in the fashion industry. Please note that not all these individuals may be internationally famous, but they hold some prominence in their respective fields.

Other surnames

ElamElay