Gayla is a name of American origin, believed to have emerged in the early 20th century. It is considered to be a variant or diminutive form of the name Gayle, which itself is a pet form of the name Gail, derived from the German name Gerhard, meaning "strong spear". Therefore, the name Gayla could be interpreted as meaning "strong spear".
The use of the name Gayla began to gain popularity in the United States during the 1930s and 1940s. It was often used as a feminine given name, but it has also been recorded as a surname in some cases.
Gayla is not a particularly common name today, but it does have a certain vintage charm that may appeal to those looking for a unique or retro-inspired name choice. Some notable individuals with the name Gayla include American actress Gayla Peevey and Gayla Smith, a former member of the U.S. women's national basketball team.
Overall, the name Gayla has an interesting history and meaning, making it a distinctive and meaningful choice for parents seeking a unique name for their child.
Gayla is a unique and distinctive name, with a consistent but not overwhelming presence in the United States over time. According to U.S. statistics, there were only six births registered as Gayla in 1961. This small number indicates that while it's not an extremely common name, it does have some representation among newborns during this specific year.
The total number of babies named Gayla born in the United States is also quite low, with a cumulative count of just six since records began. This rarity can contribute to Gayla being perceived as more unique and distinctive compared to other names that are more widely used.
Overall, these statistics demonstrate that while Gayla may not be a household name in the U.S., it has been chosen by parents for their daughters on a handful of occasions over time. This small but consistent presence could potentially appeal to those seeking an uncommon yet established name choice for their child.