Meaning & Origin
A short form of Henrietta or of other female given names ending in -etta.
Etta is a girl's and boy's baby name of German origin, a short form of Henrietta or Loretta, from the Germanic Heimirich meaning "home ruler." As a standalone name, it carries the warm, soulful energy of one of the greatest voices in American music history.
Etta James — born Jamesetta Hawkins — defined rhythm and blues with her powerful voice, and her version of "At Last" remains one of the most celebrated recordings in American music. That musical legacy, combined with Etta's vintage charm and short, sweet sound, has driven a remarkable revival of this name.