Kalila is a beautiful and unique name of Arabic origin. It is derived from the Arabic word "kilah," which means "talented" or "gifted." The name Kalila has a rich history and appears in various forms across different cultures.
In Arabian folklore, Kalila wa Dimna is a popular collection of animal fables that originated from India and were translated into Arabic by Ibn al-Muqaffa'. The stories feature two jackals named Kalila and Dimna who use their wit to outsmart other animals. These tales have been widely influential in world literature, with versions found in many languages, including Persian, Turkish, Hebrew, and even English.
In African cultures, particularly among the Swahili people of East Africa, Kalila is also a popular name for girls. In this context, Kalila means "small" or "tiny," reflecting the hope that the child will grow to be strong and resilient despite their delicate appearance.
The name Kalila has gained popularity beyond its traditional origins, becoming more common in other parts of the world as well. Today, people of various backgrounds may choose this name for their daughters due to its unique sound, beautiful meaning, and rich history.
In conclusion, Kalila is a captivating name with deep roots in Arabic and African cultures. Its meaning, "talented" or "gifted," makes it an inspiring choice for parents seeking a distinctive name for their daughter. The historical significance of the name through stories like Kalila wa Dimna further adds to its allure.
The name Kalila has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past few decades in the United States. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, there were fewer than 12 births per year with this name. However, starting around the year 2000, the number of births began to rise steadily.
By 2013, there were already over 40 babies named Kalila born in a single year. This trend continued through 2018, with over 60 births each year during this period. Although there was a slight dip in popularity between 2019 and 2020, the number of births has rebounded again since then, with over 40 babies named Kalila born each year from 2021 to 2023.
In total, there have been 1074 births with the name Kalila in the United States between 1977 and 2023. This represents a substantial increase in popularity for this name over time.