Ornella
Pronunciation: or-NEL-lah
Meaning
flowering ash tree
History & Etymology
The name Ornella is a modern Italian creation, popularized by the Italian poet and writer Gabriele D'Annunzio. He coined the name for a character in his 1904 tragedy 'La Figlia di Iorio' (The Daughter of Iorio). D'Annunzio derived the name from 'ornello,' the Italian word for a flowering ash tree, specifically the Manna Ash (Fraxinus ornus). The name quickly gained popularity in Italy following the success of the play.
While a relatively modern invention, Ornella has a distinctly Italian feel due to its linguistic roots and the cultural impact of D'Annunzio's work. It evokes images of nature and a certain poetic elegance, making it a beloved choice in Italy and among Italian diaspora.
Famous People Named Ornella
Nicknames & Short Forms
- Nella
- Orny
Ornella in different fonts
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