Clela is of Latin origin, derived from the Latin word 'clavis', which means 'key'. This unique and uncommon name has been used sparingly throughout history but adds a touch of elegance and intrigue to those who bear it. It consists of three syllables: Cle-la. The name Clela was brought into prominence by the French author and poet, Maurice Baring, who featured a character named Clela in his novel 'The Pilgrim's Way'. Despite its rare usage, Clela offers a distinctive and captivating option for parents seeking an unusual yet meaningful name for their child.
The name Clela appears to have been moderately popular during the early to mid-20th century, with a notable peak in popularity between 1917 and 1923, where it reached its highest number of births (18 in 1918). However, it experienced a steady decline throughout the rest of the century, with no more than 9 births recorded after 1940. The total number of births over this period is 287.