Pela

For such a short, simple name, Pela has many possible derivations and meanings. It's most commonly cited as a short form of Penelope, but can also be a nickname for Pelagia, a name related to the sea.

Some sources say Pela is an Indian name meaning wax, while others say it's Hawaiian for demon.

Pela might also be short for Pelaiah a Hebrew name meaning "the lord's marvel".

Pronounced PAY-luh.

As of October 2026, Pela ranked #19144 in US births in 2010 SSA, peaked at #16768 in 2009.