Laylah Girl
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: LAY-lah /ˈleɪlə/
Origin: Arabic; Hebrew
Meaning: Arabic: night; Hebrew: delicate
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Laylah has its roots in the Arabic language, deriving from the word 'layl,' which means 'night.' This etymological connection reflects a broader cultural significance in Arabic literature and poetry, where night often symbolizes beauty, mystery, and tranquility. The name has been transliterated into various forms, including Laila and Leila, as it spread through different cultures and languages, particularly during the medieval period when Arabic scholarship and literature flourished in regions such as Spain and North Africa.
Historically, the name Laylah gained prominence through its association with notable figures in literature and folklore. One of the most famous references is in the story of Layla and Majnun, a classic tale of love and longing that dates back to the 7th century.
This narrative has been retold in various forms across cultures, including Persian and Urdu literature, further embedding the name in the cultural consciousness. The name also appears in Islamic texts, where it is sometimes associated with the concept of divine beauty and the night of power, known as Laylat al-Qadr, which holds significant importance in the Islamic faith.
In addition to its literary and religious connotations, Laylah has been embraced in various cultures for its lyrical quality and evocative meaning. The name often evokes themes of romance and longing, resonating with the human experience of love and desire.
Its various diminutive forms, such as Laila, have also been used historically, contributing to its enduring appeal across different regions and communities. The name's rich linguistic and cultural heritage underscores its significance in both historical and contemporary contexts.
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Laylah was first seen in the United States in 1975. Laylah has ranked as high as #915 nationally, which occurred in 2014, and has been most popular in California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Ohio. In the past 5 years the name Laylah has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Laylah (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| CA | 34 | |
| TX | 27 | |
| FL | 20 | |
| NY | 14 | |
| IL | 11 | |
| OH | 8 | |
| GA | 8 | |
| TN | 8 | |
| PA | 7 | |
| IN | 7 | |
| MO | 7 | |
| NJ | 6 | |
| AZ | 5 | |
| NC | 5 | |
| CO | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1975 | 5 |
| 1984 | 5 |
| 1994 | 6 |
| 1995 | 9 |
| 1996 | 8 |
| 1997 | 10 |
| 1998 | 11 |
| 1999 | 8 |
| 2000 | 30 |
| 2001 | 42 |
| 2002 | 52 |
| 2003 | 93 |
| 2004 | 97 |
| 2005 | 147 |
| 2006 | 204 |
| 2007 | 237 |
| 2008 | 269 |
| 2009 | 329 |
| 2010 | 377 |
| 2011 | 411 |
| 2012 | 458 |
| 2013 | 446 |
| 2014 | 496 |
| 2015 | 405 |
| 2016 | 434 |
| 2017 | 390 |
| 2018 | 352 |
| 2019 | 334 |
| 2020 | 346 |
| 2021 | 315 |
| 2022 | 294 |
| 2023 | 261 |
| 2024 | 235 |