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Selah
Pronounced SEE-luh /ˈsiːlə/High
Meaning: Pause and reflect; a musical or liturgical direction meaning to lift up or praiseMedium
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
History & Origin
Selah (סֶלָה) is a Hebrew word found throughout the Psalms of the Hebrew Bible. Its precise meaning is uncertain; leading theories include a musical rest or pause, a direction to lift the voice, or an invitation to reflect on the preceding words. Some scholars derive it from the root salal (to lift up) and others from selah meaning 'rock.' Its liturgical resonance made it feel like a name of quiet spiritual weight.
As a given name, Selah began appearing in English-speaking countries in the 21st century, part of a broader trend toward biblical word-names. It found particular favour among Christian and interfaith families drawn to its meditative quality. By the mid-2020s it had entered the U.S. top 300 for girls.
Variations
Nicknames
Famous Bearers
- ★Selah Marley (1997–present)Jamaican-American model and singer, granddaughter of Bob Marley.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Selah mean?
Selah is a Hebrew word from the Psalms, thought to mean 'pause and reflect' or 'lift up in praise,' though its precise meaning remains debated by scholars.
How do you pronounce Selah?
It is said SEE-luh /ˈsiːlə/ — two syllables, stress on the first.
Is Selah a boy or girl name?
Selah is now used predominantly as a girls' name in the U.S., though it appears in the Bible without gender reference.
How popular is Selah?
Selah has been climbing rapidly and entered the U.S. top 300 for girls in the mid-2020s.