Angela

Angela is a feminine given name of Greek origin. It derives from the Greek word angelos, meaning messenger, and entered Latin as angelus before becoming a common given name in various European languages. The name is often associated with angels in Christian tradition, though it is used across secular contexts as well.

Variants and nicknames include Angie, Angi, or Ange; in different languages there are forms such as Angèle (French) and Angela remains standard in Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, and German-speaking areas.

Angela has been widely used in many Western countries. In the United States, it rose to prominence during the mid-20th century and has remained a familiar choice in subsequent decades. The name's popularity has varied by country and over time, reflecting broader naming trends.

Notable people named Angela include Angela Merkel, former Chancellor of Germany; Angela Bassett, American actress; Angela Lansbury, English-American actress and author; Angela Carter, British writer; and Angela Davis, American political activist and scholar.