Clelia

Clelia meaning and name origin

Clelia \c-le-lia\ as a girl's name is of Greek origin, and the meaning of Clelia is "fame". From Greek Kleio. Modern Italian form of Cloelia, the feminine form of Cloelius, a Roman family name. A feisty heroine from legendary Roman history who after having been given by the Romans to the Etruscans as a hostage, escaped by swimming the River Tiber back to Rome. She was returned, but out of admiration, the Estrucans released her along with other hostages. French novelist Mlle. de Scudéry (17th-century) retold her story. The name was borne by Saint Clelia Barbieri (19th century), patron saint of those mocked for their faith.

Clelia has 1 variant form: Cloelia.

Baby names that sound like Clelia are Glila, Gelilia, Gelila and Kelila.

Popularity of Clelia

Clelia is a somewhat popular first name for women (#3899 out of 4276) but an uncommon surname or last name for all people. (1990 U.S. Census)

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