Layla

Layla means night; a poetic, mysterious Arabic name.

Layla: Meaning, Origins, Popularity and Similar Names

LAYLA is an Arabic name most often associated with the night, evoking mystery, romance, and poetic beauty. This page explores its meaning, origin, gender usage, popularity trends, and related names.

Gender Female
Origin Arabic
Meaning
Popularity Common

Meaning of Layla

The name Layla is deeply rooted in poetic beauty, most commonly interpreted as night or dark. Emerging from ancient Arabic origins, the name is renowned for its romantic and mystical allure. In some cultures, it symbolizes the night and is associated with love stories that transcend time. Beyond its etymological connotations, the name has been embraced for its melodic sound and captivating significance, inspiring both parents and poets alike.

Pronunciation of ليلى in Arabic

/ˈleɪlɑː/ - ليلى

Pronounced as 'LAY-lah' with emphasis on the first syllable, Layla is straightforward for English speakers with its melodic and flowing phonetics.

Origin of Layla

The name Layla has its origins in the romantic languages of the Arabic world, dating back to ancient times. It first gained popularity through Arabian literature, particularly from the celebrated romance of Qays and Layla. This enduring tale catapulted the name into numerous cultures, enriching its significance. Over time, Layla has become a symbol of love and mystery, transcending its ethnic roots to resonate globally with people from diverse backgrounds.

Gender Association of Layla

The name Layla is typically associated with the female gender. While primarily used for females, variations of the name can be found for males in certain cultures. It enjoys a feminine elegance, beloved in countries like the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia. Nonetheless, in regions like Iran, male counterparts called Leili also exist. Notable individuals with this name reinforce its strong female identity across multiple cultures.

Popularity of Layla

The name Layla has experienced surging popularity in recent decades, particularly in the United States. It ranks high in baby name charts, often appearing within the top 30 names. Its popularity is also notable in countries like Australia and Canada. The melodic appeal and cultural richness underpin its widespread acceptance. With historical roots and contemporary resonance, Layla continues to be a favored choice for parents worldwide.

Global Usage of Layla

Names like Layla transcend cultural boundaries, being a symbol of universal enchantment. In Iran, it refers to beauty, while in France, it's embraced as Léila. The U.K. loves its classic resonance. Various spellings like Laila or Leila reflect cultural variations yet maintain its central charm. Globally, Layla is celebrated for its rich history and cross-cultural appeal, making it a mainstay in name registries around the world.

Global Distribution & Gender Ratio

Usage and gender distribution of the name Layla across different countries, based on data from GenderAPI.

Brazil 31.34%
♀ Female: 98.84% ♂ Male: 1.16%
United States 16.67%
♀ Female: 100% ♂ Male: 0%
Saudi Arabia 15.34%
♀ Female: 97.64% ♂ Male: 2.36%
Indonesia 5.74%
♀ Female: 100% ♂ Male: 0%
Türkiye 4.83%
♀ Female: 97.5% ♂ Male: 2.5%

Gender and popularity insights by region are derived from Gender API data.

Similar Names Related with the Name Layla

  1. D

    Delilah

    A biblical name often associated with allure and womanly strength.

  2. N

    Naila

    Often tied to Arabic, with a rising charm in Western name registers.

  3. L

    Lyra

    This name epitomizes the beauty of the sky and celestial bodies, often linked to the stars.

  4. A

    Amaya

    A name meaning 'night rain' with Japanese roots, reflecting a similar night-related theme.

  5. K

    Kaila

    A sweet name used across different cultures, extending the melodic quality of Layla.

Characteristics of People Named Layla

Creative

Individuals named Layla are often known for their artistic flair and imaginative minds.

Empathetic

They possess a deep sense of empathy, making them reliable confidants and understanding friends.

Resilient

Laylas are often admired for their ability to face challenges with strength and determination.

Elegant

There is a graceful quality about them, often attracting others with their poise and refinement.

Passionate

With an intense passion for life, they dive deep into pursuits that ignite their souls.

Professional Orientations for Layla

Artist

Layla's creativity often draws them to fields like painting, music, or design.

Counselor

With their empathetic nature, they excel in roles within psychology or social work.

Writer

Many Laylas have a gift for storytelling, making careers in literature or journalism appealing.

Educator

Their passion for knowledge and guiding others can lead to teaching positions.

Entrepreneur

They often thrive in leadership roles, capable of pioneering innovative business ventures.

Unique and Interesting Characteristics About Layla

  1. Musical Inspiration

    Eric Clapton’s legendary song 'Layla' immortalizes the name in rock history.

  2. Literary Legacy

    The name is central to the Arabian love story of Layla and Majnun, akin to a Middle Eastern 'Romeo and Juliet'.

  3. Film Presence

    The allure of the name frequently appears in movie character lists, reinforcing its cinematic appeal.

  4. Cross-Cultural Icon

    Layla is a name that resonates across continents, from Africa to the Western world.

  5. Astrological Significance

    It's often associated with the lunar qualities and night imagery, echoing its meaning in multiple cultures.

Famous People Named Layla

  • Layla Ali: Professional Boxer, retired undefeated.
  • Layla El: English dancer and W.W.E professional wrestler.
  • Layla Moran: British Liberal Democrat politician.
  • Layla Love: Internationally recognized photographer.
  • Layla Kayleigh: British-American TV presenter.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Name Layla

Answers to the most common questions people ask about the name Layla.

What is the meaning of the name Layla?

The name Layla is primarily known for its meaning 'night' or 'dark,' derived from Arabic poetry and ancient cultural connotations.

Where does the name Layla originate from?

The name Layla originates from Arabic settlements, where it became famous through stories of romance like that of Qays and Layla.

Is Layla a male or female name?

Layla is traditionally a female name, popular globally in many English-speaking populations, with some male parallel versions in specific cultures.

How popular is the name Layla?

In terms of contemporary popularity, Layla ranks high in baby name charts in countries like the United States and Australia.

How is the name Layla used worldwide?

While Layla is generally a beloved female name in the US and UK, globally it's embedded in various cultures and has counterparts meaning 'night' or 'dark'.

What careers are common for people named Layla?

Common career paths for those named Layla include artistic fields, psychology, writing, and leadership roles driven by their creativity and empathy.

What characteristics are associated with the name Layla?

People named Layla often demonstrate creativity, empathy, resilience, elegance, and passion.

What are some similar names to Layla?

Names similar to Layla include Leila, Laila, Lila, Lola, Leyla, Delilah, Naila, Lyra, Amaya, and Kaila.

How is Layla pronounced in Arabic?

In Arabic, Layla is written as ليلى and pronounced /ˈleɪlɑː/, reflecting its melodic qualities.

Are there any famous people named Layla?

Famous people named Layla include Layla Ali, renowned professional boxer, and Layla El, a celebrated W.W.E wrestler.