Stella in Chinese
Origin: Latin
Meaning: star
The standard Chinese transliteration of Stella, pronounced Sī Tè Lā. The characters are chosen for sound: 斯 (sī, "this (phonetic 's')"), 特 (tè, "special, particular"), 拉 (lā, "to pull (phonetic 'la')"). Native speakers will immediately recognize it as the name Stella.
Character Breakdown
Note: Reads as the name "Stella" to native speakers; the characters are chosen for sound, so don't expect a poetic meaning. Use a proper calligraphy font and have a native speaker check the final stencil (stroke order and orientation).
A Chinese-style given name inspired by the meaning of Stella ("star"), expressing light and brightness: 明 (míng, "bright, clear") + 月 (yuè, "moon").
Character Breakdown
Note: A meaning-based Chinese given name; it will not sound like your English name, so pair it with an explanation if that matters to you. Use a proper calligraphy font and have a native speaker check the final stencil (stroke order and orientation).
Opens with 思 (sī, "to think; longing"), which echoes the first sound of Stella (Sī), and adds 曦 (xī, "sunlight") for light and brightness. It reads like a natural Chinese given name with a nod to your English one.
Character Breakdown
Note: Looks and sounds like a genuine Chinese given name while still echoing your name; a popular choice for tattoos. Use a proper calligraphy font and have a native speaker check the final stencil (stroke order and orientation).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you write Stella in Chinese?
The most common way is 斯特拉 (traditional: 斯特拉), pronounced Sī Tè Lā. This is the standard phonetic transliteration you would see in Chinese media and translations.
What does 斯特拉 mean?
斯特拉 is a sound-based transliteration, so as a whole it simply means "Stella". Individually: 斯 (sī) = this (phonetic 's'); 特 (tè) = special, particular; 拉 (lā) = to pull (phonetic 'la'). If you want real meaning, try 明月 (Míng Yuè), inspired by the meaning of Stella: "star".
Which Chinese name for Stella is best for a tattoo?
Choose 斯特拉 if you want people to recognize your name, 明月 if you prefer meaning over sound, or 思曦 for a natural-sounding Chinese name that still echoes Stella. Whatever you pick, use a calligraphy font and ask a native speaker to check the final design.