Name Meaning: Leila
Names have always held significant value in our relationships and identities, and Leila is no exception! A beautiful name with rich roots, Leila resonates with charm and elegance. This guide explores the meaning of Leila, its origin, cultural history, notable individuals, and so much more. Let’s dive into the enchanting world of the name Leila!
1. The Name and Meaning
Leila is primarily of Arabic origin, meaning “night” or “dark beauty.” It represents the allure of the night, often associated with mystery and elegance. The name is linked to other languages and cultures, including its Hebrew variations which carry meanings like “delicate” and “night”. According to Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary, the essence of the name also emphasizes its beauty and the mystic nature associated with the night sky. Other dictionaries align with this interpretation, emphasizing Leila’s elegant connotations. For instance, Wiktionary defines it similarly, highlighting its beauty connotations. Overall, Leila echoes a blend of beauty and depth intrinsic to nighttime, making it a mesmerizing choice for a name.
2. History and Gender Usage
Leila’s usage spans across many cultures over the centuries, gaining prominence particularly in Arabic-speaking regions. It is typically a feminine name but has also been embraced in some cultures as a unisex name. Throughout history, Leila has been celebrated in literature, mythology, and folklore, emphasizing its association with powerful female figures. The name has been popular in various forms in countries like Iran, Pakistan, and many Western nations, showcasing its widespread appeal. Gender-wise, it primarily remains a name given to girls across cultures, but notably, it also sees some instances as a boy’s name particularly in modern contexts.
3. 15 Fun Facts About the Name
- Leila is a name that appears frequently in Persian poetry.
- It often symbolizes beauty and grace in many narratives.
- The name has various spellings, including Layla and Laila.
- Leila is a popular character in the famous opera “The Legend of Leila.”
- It has been represented in media, including songs and movies.
- The name correlates with the beauty associated with nighttime.
- In some cultures, the name is connected with lunar deities.
- Leila has been a popular choice amongst celebrities for character names.
- It conveys a sense of elegance that many parents cherish.
- Leila has been used in different cultures, showcasing its versatility.
- In the romantic language of love, the name inspires many beautiful expressions.
- The name Leila became widely popular in the U.S. during the late 20th century.
- People named Leila are often too charming and charismatic!
- There are many well-known songs dedicated to individuals named Leila.
- The name Leila has various patrons across different regions.
4. What Name Lists Does Leila Rank For?
In terms of current popularity in U.S. births, Leila is a celebrated name that resonates well with new parents. As of the latest data, overall, Leila ranks approximately #72 in U.S. births. For baby girls specifically, Leila ranks at #101, showcasing its elegance and beauty appealing to many parents. In contrast, while considerably less common as a boy’s name, with ranking around #900-950, it still finds charm and connection among diverse cultures.
5. 10 Notable Persons Named Leila
- Leila Aboulela – An award-winning Sudanese author known for her compelling narratives.
- Leila Lopes – Miss Universe 2011 from Angola, celebrating beauty and empowerment.
- Leila Janah – An entrepreneur and social impact leader, establishing significant businesses.
- Leila Forouhar – A famous Iranian singer known for her contribution to Persian music.
- Leila Pahlavi – The youngest daughter of the last Shah of Iran, known for her advocacy.
- Leila Kalumi – A successful athlete from Uganda showcasing resilience.
- Leila Slimani – A Moroccan-French author receiving acclaim in global literature.
- Leila K – A prominent Swedish singer recognized for her energetic performances.
- Leila Hurst – A celebrated environmentalist involved in ecological activism.
- Leila Shams – A prominent American artist famed for her innovative artworks.
6. Notable Persons With the Last Name Leila
Leila as a last name may not be as common, but important personalities have emerged bearing it. For instance, Leila Khaled, the iconic Palestinian militant known for her revolutionary efforts, is an influential figure. On the cultural side, individuals like film directors or authors with the surname contribute significantly to shaping the arts and storytelling narratives.
7. Popularity of the Baby Name Leila in the U.S.
Leila has shown a surging popularity trend in recent years in the U.S. The name currently ranks within the top 100 names for baby girls. Its charm and musicality, along with its historical significance, contribute to its popularity. Likewise, percentages rank the name consistently high in several countries, attributing to its commonality in occurrences. Countries that see the name Leila often include the U.S., Canada, parts of Europe like France and the UK, and Middle Eastern nations.
8. Where is the Name Leila Popular?
Leila holds a special place in various cultures globally, primarily resonating in Arabic-speaking countries, European nations, and Western societies. Its elegance and beautiful meaning translate well, showcasing strong appeal to parents choosing names for their children. Increasingly, countries such as Canada, Australia, and some African nations have embraced Leila, blending tradition and novelty.
9. 10 Common Last Names for Leila
- Smith
- Johnson
- Williams
- Brown
- Jones
- Garcia
- Miller
- Martinez
- Davis
- Rodriguez
10. 10 Common First Names for Leila
- Fatima
- Amina
- Layla
- Norah
- Imani
- Maya
- Samira
- Aisha
- Zara
- Yasmin
Conclusion
The name Leila encapsulates a myriad of meanings, steeped in cultural richness and beauty. Its popularity continues to grow as parents across the globe appreciate the elegance associated with it, reminiscent of star-lit nights and delicacy, highlighting its historical significance and modern relevance. As a name that transcends barriers, Leila is not merely a label but a heartbeat, a story, and a legacy. Embracing Leila is embracing depth, beauty, and connection, making it a treasured name for generations to come.
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