Rafaela

Rafaela is the feminine form of Rafael, thus representing the Spanish and Portuguese variant of Raphaela, the female version of the biblical and Hebrew name Raphael (רָפָאֵל‎). The name carries the meaning 'God has healed' and is composed of the Hebrew elements rafá (רָפָא) for 'to heal' and ʾēl (אֵל) for 'God.'

What does the name Rafaela mean?

Rafaela is the feminine counterpart of Rafael and is frequently used in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking areas. In Germany, it can also be found as an alternative spelling of Raphaela. Additionally, the form Rafaéla is common in Hungary. Other variants of Raphaela include Rafaella, Rafailia, Rafala, Raffaela, Raffaella, Raphaele, and Raphaëlle. The name means 'God has healed,' derived from the Hebrew roots rafá (רָפָא) and ʾēl (אֵל).

Where does the name Rafaela come from?

Rafaela has its roots in Ancient Hebrew and means 'God has healed.'

How do you pronounce Rafaela?

The pronunciation of Rafaela is melodic and is pronounced in German as 'Ra-fa-e-la' [ʁafaˈeːla]. The name is four syllables long and offers a rhythmic sound characterized by the combination of soft R sounds and open vowels. The sequence of A and E sounds conveys a sense of expansiveness and warmth, giving Rafaela a harmonious and vibrant character.

When is the name day of Rafaela?

The name day for Rafaela is celebrated on January 6 (Raphaela Porres y Ayollón) and September 29 (Archangel Raphael).

Popularity

In Germany, Rafaela is a sought-after name, currently ranking 1,069th on the list of most common female baby names. Its best ranking was in 2005 at 185th place. Over the last ten years, the name has been given around 380 times, placing it at 1,026th in the ten-year statistics. Between 2010 and 2024, it ranks 1,016th. Worldwide, Rafaela is also common, with varying rankings in different countries.

Nicknames & pet names

Ela / Elchen / Lela / Raf / Rafa / Rafela / Raffel / Raffi / Raffinchen / Rafi / Ralfi

Similar first names

Famous people

• Rafaela Aparicio (Spanish actress)
• Rafaela de Miranda Travalao (Brazilian footballer)
• Rafaela Franic (Croatian model)
• Rafaela Hillerbrand (German physicist)
• Rafaela Ottiano (actress from America)
• Rafaela Zanella (Brazilian model)
• Viktoria Rafaela Alma Nickau (German actress)