Pearlena is an uncommon yet captivating given name of unknown origin, believed to have been created as a blend of popular names in the late 20th century. It first gained notable usage in the United States during the 1970s and has since appeared sporadically in other English-speaking countries. The name Pearlena consists of two components: 'Pearl', which is derived from the gemstone, symbolizing purity and value, and '-ena', a suffix found in names like Penelope and Xenobia, often associated with Greek origins but not definitively attributed to any specific meaning. Despite its unique combination, there isn't a clear consensus on what Pearlena signifies as a whole. Some interpret it as an innovative blend of the two elements, while others perceive it as a nod to historical figures named Pearl or the enduring appeal of names ending in '-ena'. The name has been used infrequently throughout its existence, allowing it to retain an air of uniqueness and individuality for those who bear it.
The name Pearlena experienced significant popularity during the early to mid-20th century, with over 300 instances of its use between 1905 and 1966. The highest number of births occurred in 1937, with 16 newborn girls named Pearlena. Interestingly, there's a notable gap in usage from 1942 to 1951, suggesting that the name may have fallen out of fashion during those years.