Ayla Girl
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: AY-lah //ˈeɪ.lə//
Origin: Hebrew; Turkish
Meaning: Hebrew: Oak tree; Turkish: Moonlight
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Ayla has its roots in multiple languages, with its earliest forms traceable to Hebrew and Turkish. In Hebrew, Ayla (אילה) means "doe" or "gazelle," symbolizing grace and beauty.
The Turkish interpretation of Ayla translates to "moonlight" or "halo," which evokes imagery of illumination and serenity. The name made its way into English through cultural exchanges and the increasing interest in names from various linguistic backgrounds, particularly during the 20th century as global communication expanded.
Historically, the name Ayla has been associated with various cultural narratives. In the Hebrew Bible, the doe is often a symbol of gentleness and purity, which may have contributed to the name's appeal in Jewish communities.
In Turkish culture, the name has been embraced in literature and poetry, often representing beauty and tranquility, particularly in works that celebrate nature and the cosmos. The name gained further recognition in the late 20th century with the publication of Jean M.
Auel's "Earth's Children" series, where a character named Ayla is depicted as a strong and resourceful woman, thus enhancing the name's cultural resonance. The enduring significance of Ayla can be attributed to its associations with nature and femininity, making it a name that embodies both strength and grace.
The variations of the name, such as Ayla in Turkish and its Hebrew counterpart, highlight its adaptability across different cultures. This versatility has allowed Ayla to maintain a presence in various linguistic contexts, contributing to its rich historical tapestry.
Famous people named Ayla
Ayla Nereo is a singer-songwriter best known for her albums The Code of the Flowers, The Last of the Wild, and The Light of the Moon.
Ayla Brown is a singer and television personality best known for American Idol, The Amazing Race, and her music career.
Fictional characters named Ayla
Ayla is a fictional character from the novel series Earth's Children by Jean M. Auel. She is a Cro-Magnon woman who navigates life in prehistoric Europe, showcasing her resilience and adaptability.
Sibling suggestions
Similar names
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Ayla was first seen in the United States in 1963.
Ayla has ranked as high as #174 nationally, which occurred in 2024, and has been most popular in California, Texas, New York, Florida, and Pennsylvania.
In the past 5 years the name Ayla has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Ayla (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| CA | 449 | |
| TX | 294 | |
| FL | 207 | |
| NY | 200 | |
| MA | 134 | |
| IL | 130 | |
| NC | 124 | |
| PA | 122 | |
| NJ | 104 | |
| VA | 99 | |
| GA | 98 | |
| WA | 84 | |
| OH | 82 | |
| TN | 65 | |
| AZ | 58 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1963 | 6 |
| 1977 | 5 |
| 1978 | 5 |
| 1979 | 5 |
| 1981 | 6 |
| 1982 | 13 |
| 1983 | 38 |
| 1984 | 41 |
| 1985 | 46 |
| 1986 | 93 |
| 1987 | 329 |
| 1988 | 267 |
| 1989 | 225 |
| 1990 | 241 |
| 1991 | 282 |
| 1992 | 261 |
| 1993 | 248 |
| 1994 | 246 |
| 1995 | 241 |
| 1996 | 235 |
| 1997 | 199 |
| 1998 | 231 |
| 1999 | 247 |
| 2000 | 252 |
| 2001 | 301 |
| 2002 | 297 |
| 2003 | 312 |
| 2004 | 372 |
| 2005 | 417 |
| 2006 | 1,233 |
| 2007 | 864 |
| 2008 | 796 |
| 2009 | 793 |
| 2010 | 914 |
| 2011 | 925 |
| 2012 | 1,294 |
| 2013 | 1,110 |
| 2014 | 1,187 |
| 2015 | 1,204 |
| 2016 | 1,237 |
| 2017 | 1,358 |
| 2018 | 1,587 |
| 2019 | 1,745 |
| 2020 | 2,025 |
| 2021 | 2,581 |
| 2022 | 2,757 |
| 2023 | 2,559 |
| 2024 | 3,236 |