Arelis, of Spanish origin, is a unique and charming female given name derived from the Latin word 'Arethusa', which means 'pure'. This name has gained popularity worldwide due to its melodic sound and distinctiveness, often preferred by parents seeking an uncommon yet elegant moniker for their daughter. It rolls off the tongue with ease, being pronounced as AH-reh-lees. Arelis is also associated with the Greek myth of Arethusa, a nymph who was transformed into a spring to escape her pursuer, adding a touch of mystique and intrigue to this beautiful name. In some cultures, it may be mistaken for the English word 'areal', referring to an area or region, but its true linguistic roots make it a striking choice for parents looking to give their child a name that stands out while still being easy to pronounce.
The name Arelis experienced varied popularity over the decades, with a significant peak in the late 70s and early 80s. Between 1978 and 1985, there were consistently high numbers of births each year, reaching as many as 46 in 1978. However, this trend did not continue throughout the 90s and 2000s, with fewer than 30 births per year on average after 1990. The name has seen a slight resurgence since 2016, but it remains less popular than in its heyday. Overall, there have been a total of 986 babies named Arelis from 1962 to 2023.