Comprehensive Guide on the Name “Laylah”

Origin and Historical Background 

The name Laylah has its origins in Arabic culture and languages, deriving from the word “Leila” or “Layla,” which means “night” or “dark beauty.” This name has been historically prevalent in Middle Eastern cultures but has also seen global adoption. Literary references to the name Laylah have been noted in Arabic poetry, particularly in the classic love story of “Layla and Majnun,” an ancient tale of tragic romance comparable to Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.” 

Meaning and Cultural Significance

In Arabic culture, names often carry deep meaning and significance, which is true for Laylah. Representing beauty that shines in the night, the name Laylah evokes an image of elegance, grace, and winsome charm. The night, often symbolizing mystery and allure, coupled with the connotation of ‘beauty,’ plays into the name’s appeal, making it a charismatic and rapturous choice. Elegance, grace, and a sense of enduring charm enhance its cultural resonance.

Famous Historical Figures with the Name Laylah

Laila Ali

• Historical Era: Contemporary
• Key Contributions: Professional boxer, TV show host, and daughter of legendary boxer Muhammad Ali.
• Cultural Impact: Known for her unbeaten record in women’s boxing and as an influential figure in promoting women in sports.

Layla El

• Historical Era: Contemporary
• Key Contributions: Professional wrestler and former WWE Diva.
• Cultural Impact: Layla El has impacted the entertainment and sports industry, becoming a role model for many young women.

Usage Over Time 

The name Laylah has experienced varying degrees of popularity over the years. It has seen a resurgence in recent decades, particularly in Western countries, owing to its melodic pronunciation and cultural ties. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), Laylah saw increased popularity in the 2010s, breaking into the top 1000 baby names in the United States.

Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic spelling of Laylah is “LAY-lah.” The emphasis is on the first syllable, “LAY,” followed by a softer “lah.” It is important to maintain the melodic nature to preserve its elegance and charm.

Biblical Context 

The name Laylah does not have a direct Biblical reference. However, similar names like Delilah, who appears in the Biblical narrative of Samson and Delilah, share phonetic resemblance and historical weight. The story, found in the Book of Judges, emphasizes intrigue and drama, albeit with a more complex historical context.

Additional Unique Information 

Numerology

In numerology, the name Laylah might be associated with creativity, intuition, and sensitivity. People named Laylah are often seen as imaginative and spiritually inclined.

Variations

Variants of this name include Leila, Laila, Layla, and Leyla, each carrying the same enchanting meaning.

Cultural Variants

The name Laylah is embraced across various cultures, including Persian, Turkish, and African communities. In each one, while the spelling sometimes changes, the core meaning remains consistent.

Popularity Information 

Laylah entered the Top 1000 baby names in the United States during the 2010s. According to the SSA, Laylah was ranked at #778 in 2020, showcasing a steady climb in popularity, likely driven by its lyrical qualities and cultural significance.

Conclusion

The name Laylah is an enduringly elegant and enchanting choice, evoking the beauty and subtlety of the night. With deep historical roots and a meaningful cultural significance, Laylah offers expectant parents a name that stands out with grace, history, and charm.

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