The baby name Laila is a variation of Leila or Layla. And while it has only become popular in the United States in the 21st century, it actually has historic Arabic and Hebrew roots. The name is especially popular in Muslim countries and cultures, but in recent years, it's been adopted by the international community. Several celebrities have chosen the name for their daughters, and it pairs well with a variety of middle names, ranging from those that are short and sweet to those that are long and poetic.
Meaning of the name Laila:
Hebrew: Dark, night
Arabic: Dark, night
Norse: Holy
Origin of the name Laila:
In both Arabic and Hebrew, the name Laila means “dark” or “night.” In Nordic countries, the name means “holy.” It's derived from the name Leila.
Symbolism of the name Laila:
In Arab cultures, the name Laila is given to girls born at night or in the dark. It may also symbolize dark hair or skin.
Style of the name Laila:
Modern
Gender of the name Laila:
Laila is a girl's name.
Pronunciation of the name Laila:
LAY-luh
Number of syllables in the name Laila:
Two
Emotion evoked from the name Laila:
Laila may evoke images of someone who is an exotic beauty.
Alternative spellings for the name Laila:
Nicknames for the name Laila:
- Lala
- Lacy
Popularity of the name Laila:
Laila has been a top 1,000 baby name since 2000. As of 2020, it ranks at number 225, according to the Social Security Administration.
Related names for the name Laila:
Great middle names for Laila and their meanings:
- Grace (God's grace)
- Eloise (healthy, wide)
- Iris (rainbow)
- Penelope (weaver)
- Rose (flower)
- Olivia (olive tree)
- Elizabeth (pledged to God)
- Ruth (compassionate friend)
- Katherine (pure)
Famous people with the name Laila:
- Laila Ali (boxer)
- Laila Stien (writer)
- Laila Abdulla (First Lady of the Maldives)
- Laila Hirvisaari (writer)
- Laila Morse (actress)
Lailas in popular culture:
- Laila Markus (character on the TV show “Will and Grace”)
- Laila (character in the book “A Thousand Splendid Suns”)