The name Stella means “star,” coming directly from the Latin word stella for star.

Quick meaning

  • Literal meaning: “star,” with a celestial, shining, guiding vibe.
  • Symbolism: light in darkness, guidance, hope, and inspiration.
  • Feel: elegant, timeless, a bit romantic and poetic, often used to suggest someone who “shines” or stands out.

Origin and background

  • Origin: Latin, from the common noun stella (“star”).
  • History: became especially popular in English after the 16th‑century sonnet sequence “Astrophel and Stella” by Sir Philip Sidney, which linked the name to romance and the night sky.
  • Related forms: Estelle, Estella, Estrella, and the Marian title “Stella Maris” (“star of the sea”) in Christian tradition.

Extra layer: vibe and associations

Many modern baby‑name and personality write‑ups say Stella gives off a bright, creative, hopeful energy, like someone who brings light into other people’s lives. In stories and pop culture, characters named Stella often lean into that mix of warmth, strength, and a slightly mysterious, star‑like charm.

TL;DR: If someone is named Stella, their name basically means “star” and often carries the idea of a person who shines, guides, or brings hope. 🌟

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.