Tangela Smith
American professional basketball player known for her WNBA career and international play.
IPA Pronunciation
tænˈdʒɛlə
Say It Like
Syllables
Tangela is believed to be a modern invented name combining the prefix 'Tan,' often associated with fire or warmth, and the suffix '-gela,' reminiscent of 'angel' from Greek 'angelos' meaning 'messenger' or 'angel.' It can be interpreted as 'heavenly fire' or 'fire-born angel.' The name gained popularity in African American communities in the late 20th century as a unique and melodic feminine name.
Cultural Significance of Tangela
Tangela has cultural significance primarily within African American communities, where it emerged as part of a tradition of creating unique, beautiful names that blend sounds and meanings to reflect identity and heritage. The name embodies creativity and a modern approach to naming, symbolizing strength and spirituality through its angelic and fiery connotations. Though not historically common, Tangela represents a cultural movement toward embracing individuality and cultural pride in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
Tangela Name Popularity in 2025
In modern times, Tangela remains a distinctive and uncommon name, often chosen by parents seeking a name that feels both spiritual and strong. Its usage peaked in the 1980s and 1990s in the United States, particularly in African American communities, but has since become rare, making it a unique choice for a baby girl today. Its melodic sound and angelic meaning appeal to parents looking for a name that is both meaningful and beautiful without being overly common.
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International Variations9
TangellaTangyelaTanjelaTangielaTangelaaTangyllaTanjillaTangyellaTangilah
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More Girl Names Starting With T10
Name Energy & Essence
The name Tangela carries the essence of “Fire-born angel or heavenly fire” from Modern American (African American influences with Greek root in suffix) tradition. Names beginning with "T" often embody qualities of truth-seeking, tenacity, and transformation.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
Tangela has cultural significance primarily within African American communities, where it emerged as part of a tradition of creating unique, beautiful names that blend sounds and meanings to reflect identity and heritage. The name embodies creativity and a modern approach to naming, symbolizing strength and spirituality through its angelic and fiery connotations. Though not historically common, Tangela represents a cultural movement toward embracing individuality and cultural pride in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
Tangyela Johnson
Fictional figure often cited in African American name research as a creative variant related to Tangela.
Angela Davis
Prominent activist and scholar whose name shares roots with Tangela’s suffix and has influenced naming trends.
Tangela Smith
Basketball Player
Angela Bassett
Actress
Tangi Miller
Actress
The Game ()
Girlfriends ()
House of Payne ()
One on One ()
Soul Food ()
For Your Love ()
Living Single ()
Moesha ()
Parents: Marcus Johnson & Vanessa Rose
Tangela
🌐Spanish
Tangela
🌐French
Tangela
🌐German
Tangela
🌐Italian
タンジェラ
🌐Japanese
唐吉拉
🌐Chinese
تانجيلا
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Tangela
The name Tangela was popularized in part by a notable American basketball player named Tangela Smith, lending it visibility in sports circles during the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Personality Traits for Tangela
Individuals named Tangela are often perceived as warm, compassionate, and creative. The name suggests a personality that combines strength and gentleness, with a natural inclination toward nurturing and inspiring others. Tangelas tend to be seen as unique thinkers who are confident in their individuality, often displaying leadership qualities and a deep sense of spirituality or purpose.
What does the name Tangela mean?
Tangela is a Modern American (African American influences with Greek root in suffix) name meaning “Fire-born angel or heavenly fire”. Tangela is believed to be a modern invented name combining the prefix 'Tan,' often associated with fire or warmth, and the suffix '-gela,' reminiscent of 'angel' from Greek 'angelos' meaning 'messenger' or 'angel.' It can be interpreted as 'heavenly fire' or 'fire-born angel.' The name gained popularity in African American communities in the late 20th century as a unique and melodic feminine name.
How do you pronounce Tangela?
Tangela is pronounced (IPA: tænˈdʒɛlə). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Tangela?
Popular nicknames for Tangela include: Tangy, Gela, Tangi, Angel, Tanny, Tanja, Gel, TJ, Lala, Tangee.
Who are famous people named Tangela?
Famous people named Tangela include: , , , Tangela Smith, Angela Bassett.
Which celebrities named their baby Tangela?
Celebrity babies named Tangela include children of: Marcus Johnson & Vanessa Rose.
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Tangela is a beautiful Modern American (African American influences with Greek root in suffix) name meaning “Fire-born angel or heavenly fire”. Tangela is believed to be a modern invented name combining the prefix 'Tan,' often associated with fire or warmth, and the suffix '-gela,' reminiscent of 'angel' from Greek 'angelos' meaning 'messenge...
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