Mirella

Mirella is an Italian and Provencal form derived from the Latin root mirare (to look at with wonder, to admire). The Latin word comes from the Proto-Indo-European root smer, and is related to the Sanskrit smarati (to remember). From mirare come also the Latin miraculum (wonder, miracle), mirabilis (wonderful), and speculum (mirror, via a related root). The name was popularised in the Provencal literary tradition through Frederic Mistral's 1859 epic poem Mireio, and the Italian form Mirella became widespread in the twentieth century.

Mirella has its deepest roots in southern French and Italian culture. The Provencal poet Frederic Mistral gave the name literary prestige with his epic poem Mireio, which was later adapted as an opera by Gounod. In Italy the name found wide favour in the mid-twentieth century, and was carried to global prominence by Mirella Freni, whose voice was described by Leonard Bernstein as the most beautiful he had ever heard. Freni's long career at La Scala, the Metropolitan Opera, and opera houses worldwide ensured the name became synonymous with lyrical beauty and Italian artistry. Though usage has declined since its mid-century peak, Mirella retains a warmly classic quality.