Ariella: Unraveling the Meaning Behind the Name

What Does Ariella Mean?

Ariella is a Hebrew girl’s name that means “lioness of God.” It’s comprised of Ari, meaning “lion,” and Ella, meaning “fairy maiden” and “God is my oath.” Some view Ariella as two individual titles — “Ari” and “Ella.” In that case, Ariella’s interpretation would mean “lion goddess” or “lion fairy maiden.”

Many consider Ariella a variation of Ariel, a unisex title with the same meaning. Parents choose Ariella for their daughter, hoping she will be a steadfast, fierce woman. With spiritual associations, many connect Ariella with having strong beliefs.

What Is the Origin of the Name Ariella?

Ariella is of Hebrew origin and is the feminization of Ari, the Latin equivalent of Leo. Ariella is also connected to “ara,” the Hebrew word for “gather.” Hebrews would use “ara” in reference to ferocious people or nations who stole resources from others. Ariella was first recorded in the late 19th-century, first appearing in the U.S.

How Popular Is the Name Ariella?

Ariella is a compound title that first became popular in the 19th-century. With the rise of Hebrew titles, Ariella landed on American name charts in 2008. Ariella peaked in 2020, ranking #154 for girls in the U.S. Ariella is still among the top 200 options for American girls, but you’ll also find the title sprinkled throughout Europe.

Ariella is prevalent among Christians, but its positive meaning makes it a suitable choice for Muslims, too.

How Do I Pronounce Ariella?

Ariella can be pronounced “AIR-ee-EL-uh” or “AR-ee-EL-uh,” depending on the parent’s preference.

Is Ariella a Boy or Girl Name?

Ariella is considered a girl’s name but doubles as a rare surname.

Variations of Ariella

Check out these fun variations of Ariella.

• Araella (Hebrew)
• Ariel (Hebrew)
• Ariela (Hebrew)
• Arielle (Hebrew)
• Ariellie (Hebrew)
• Ariyella (Hebrew)
• Aryella (Hebrew)

Nicknames for Ariella

Try one of these adorable Ariella nicknames.

• Aerie
• Ar
• Ari
• Ella
• Elle
• Ellie
• Elly
• La
• Ree
• Riella
• Rielle

Similar Names to Ariella

These beautiful titles are similar to Ariella in pronunciation, meaning, and origin.

• Arabella
• Ari
• Ariana
• Arielle
• Aryana
• Aryella
• Aubriella
• Briella
• Daniella
• Eliana
• Ella
• Gabriella
• Mariella
• Marisella

Middle Names for Ariella

These middle names for Arielle will make a lasting impression.

• Blair
• Celeste
• Emery
• Faith
• Grace
• Hope
• Isabelle
• Ivy
• Jade
• Jane
• Jasmine
• Juniper
• Layne
• Leigh
• Lily
• Macy
• Mercy
• Selah
• Serenity
• Willow

Sibling Names for Ariella

These sibling names for Ariella are as cute as a button.

• Arlo
• Bri
• Cleo
• Elijah
• Gabriel
• Gemma
• Isabella
• Jewel
• Jonathon
• Justice
• Kai
• Leigh
• Liam
• Lila
• Luca
• Noah
• Oliver
• Samson
• Sophia
• Zion

Famous People Named Ariella

Check out some of Ariella’s most famous namesakes.

• Ariella Arida: Filipino actress and former Miss Universe.
• Ariella Azoulay: Israeli author, filmmaker, and activist.
• Ariella Kaslin: Swiss Olympic gymnast.
• Ariella Rush: American pro ballroom dancer.
• Ariella Vaccarino: American singer and songwriter.

Ariella in Popular Culture

Keep an eye out for these mentions of Ariella in popular culture.

• Ariella Festila Nimura Furstána: Character in Katherine Kurtz’s “Deryni” series.
• Ariella Kent: Main character in various DC Comics.
• Ariella Third: Featured in the animated series “Fillmore.”

Ariella FAQs

Get answers to the most frequently asked questions about Ariella.

Is Ariella a Rare Name?

Ariella was practically unheard of until the late 19th-century when it appeared in comic strips and books. Ariella is well-known in America and Europe, but remains a rare option elsewhere. Americans adore Ariella, making the title a top 200 pick for girls in 2022. Parents in other countries are likelier to go with Ariel, a Disney-inspired alternative to Ariella.

What Is the Male Version of Ariella?

The male version of Ariella is Ariel, a Hebrew title meaning “lion of God.” Ariel ranks among the top 1,000 picks for American boys and among the top 300 options for girls. In other countries, Ariel is likelier to be used for little boys.

Is Ariella a Biblical Name?

Ariella is not found in the Bible but still has spiritual connotations. Ariella is taken from Ariel, which appears in the Old Testament as a minor figure and a place name. Many believe Ariel’s references in the Bible point to parts of an altar. Ariella also has a biblical interpretation, meaning “lioness of God.” While Ariella is not distinctly biblical, many would consider it a spiritual option due to its meaning.