Star of the sea; bitter; beloved
Mariela is a Spanish and Italian diminutive of Maria, often combined with the suffix -ela. It carries the traditional meanings associated with Mary, including 'star of the sea' or 'bitterness', but is often chosen for its lyrical, romantic sound.
Less common today
Mariela isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #471 in 1992.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
Cuban politician and sexologist
Cuban-born Italian actress
Argentine field hockey Olympic medalist
