Leila is a beautiful and unique name of Arabic origin. It is derived from the female form of the Arabic word "layl," which means "night." In some cultures, Leila is also associated with the story of Layla and Majnun, two lovers whose tragic tale has been retold in many works of literature and art throughout history.
The name Leila gained popularity during the Middle Ages when it was introduced to Europe through translations of Arabic poetry. It was often used as a poetic name to describe women who were believed to be as beautiful and mysterious as the night. Over time, Leila has been adopted by people of various cultures and backgrounds around the world.
Today, Leila is still a beloved name that carries with it a rich history and cultural significance. Whether you're drawn to its exotic sound or its poetic meaning, giving your child the name Leila is sure to bestow upon them a unique and beautiful identity.
The name Leila has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past few decades in the United States, with a total of 53,021 babies named Leila since 1880.
Between 1880 and 1976, the number of births with the name Leila fluctuated but remained relatively low, ranging from a high of 192 births in 1959 to a low of 136 births in 1965. However, starting in 1977, there was a marked increase in the popularity of the name Leila.
From 1977 to 1980, the number of babies named Leila more than doubled, with 192 births in 1977 and 427 births in 2000. The name continued to gain traction throughout the early 2000s, reaching an all-time high of 1,509 births in 2010.
Since then, the popularity of the name Leila has remained relatively stable, with around 1,300-1,400 babies named Leila each year between 2010 and 2023. Despite a slight dip to 1,242 births in 2022, the name continues to be popular among parents in the United States.
Overall, these statistics show that while Leila was not a particularly common name for much of the 20th century, it has become increasingly popular since the late 1970s. With over 53,000 babies named Leila since 1880, it is clear that this name has resonated with many parents in the United States.