Raphaela is a distinctive and elegant female given name of Latin origin, derived from the male name Raphael, which means "God has healed." The name is often associated with angels due to its connection with the archangel Raphael in Christian angelology. It is composed of two elements: 'Rapa', meaning 'healed by God,' and 'el(a)', meaning 'God.' Raphaela is a unique choice for parents seeking an uncommon yet meaningful name for their daughter, offering a blend of tradition and individuality. Its usage peaked in the mid-20th century but remains relatively rare today, making it an appealing option for those who prefer less common names.
Raphaela has seen a significant rise in popularity since the late 20th century. Prior to the 1980s, the name was quite rare with only a few births recorded each year. However, beginning around 1985, there was a notable increase in its usage, with more than five Raphaelas born annually from that point forward. The peak years for this name were between 2016 and 2023, during which time there were over ten Raphaela births each year. Overall, between 1915 and 2023, a total of 479 girls were named Raphaela at birth.