Gala - Name Meaning and Popularity -

Meaning of Gala

Gala, pronounced GAH-luh in English (or GAH-lah in Spanish), is a petite name with a surprisingly grand backstory. It likely began as a Russian pet form of Galina—drawn from the ancient Greek word for “serenity”—then strolled into Western ears through the French and English word “gala,” that sparkling synonym for a celebration. The result is a moniker that feels at once peaceful and party-ready, like a calm soul who still knows how to light up the room. Art lovers may picture Salvador Dalí’s legendary muse, Gala Dalí, while foodies might think of the sweet-crisp Gala apple, and social butterflies can’t help but hear the rustle of evening gowns headed to a gala event. Despite hovering in the lower half of the U.S. Top 1,000 for decades, Gala’s steady, low-key presence suggests a hidden gem just waiting to take center stage—proof that even a short name can promise a life filled with color, creativity, and quiet confidence.