Leila

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Leila

Gender Girl
Origin Arabic
Letters 5
Syllables 2
Pronunciation lee-lah

Leila, which has 5 letters and 2 syllables, is a female name of Arabic origin.

Meaning of Leila

Dark beauty

Leila is derived from the Arabic name Leila/Laila, which means 'night', 'dark beauty', or 'born at night'. It is also used as a diminutive of the name Eleanor and Elizabeth.

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Meaning Dark beauty
Origin Arabic
Gender Girl
Popularity (US) #268 in 2024 Declining
Rarity (US) Uncommon (Top 500)
Era Modern (peaked 2010)

Background & History of The Name Leila

Leila is a feminine given name with Arabic origins. It is derived from the Arabic word "laylah", which means "night". In Arabic literature and poetry, the name Leila often represents the concept of beauty, elegance, and darkness. The name has gained popularity not only in Arabic-speaking countries but also in various cultures around the world.

The name Leila holds significant meaning in Islamic culture as well. In Islamic mythology, Leila is believed to be one of the heavenly nymphs, also known as "houri", who await righteous men in paradise. This association with paradise and divine beauty further enhances the allure of the name.

Leila has become increasingly popular in Western societies, perhaps due to its exotic and melodious nature. It has been popularized through various mediums, including literature, music, and films. One notable example is from the famous poem "Layla and Majnun" by the Persian poet Nizami Ganjavi. This tragic love story has been told and reimagined in different forms over the centuries, contributing to the name's popularity and romantic connotations.

Moreover, the name Leila has several variations and spellings in different languages. Some common variations include Layla, Leyla, Laila, and Lejla. These variations have allowed the name to transcend cultural and linguistic barriers, making it a recognizable and cherished name worldwide.

Parents often choose the name Leila for their daughters as it embodies qualities such as beauty, mystery, and sophistication. The name's popularity can be seen in its frequent appearance in baby name rankings around the world.

Overall, the name Leila carries a rich cultural heritage, holding symbolism beyond its literal meaning. It continues to captivate individuals with its alluring sound and poetic associations, making it a timeless choice for parents seeking a name that is both meaningful and beautiful.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Leila over the years.

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