Comprehensive Guide on the Name “Leila”

Origin and Historical Background

The name Leila has roots in both Arabic and Persian cultures, where it is often spelled as Laila or Layla. It derives from the Arabic word “layl,” meaning “night.” Historically, Leila is often celebrated for its poetic and romantic connotations, making appearances in various literary works and folklore. One of the most famous tales involving the name is the Persian love story of “Layla and Majnun,” a poem by Nizami Ganjavi, which has influenced literature for centuries and parallels the story of Romeo and Juliet in its tragic romance.

Meaning and Cultural Significance

Leila means “Night Beauty,” which conveys a sense of mystique and allure, fitting for a name that has been romanticized through literature and history. The night is often associated with imagination, dreams, and mystery, lending a poetic and somewhat enchanting quality to the name. It’s a name that evokes the serene and dark beauty of the nighttime, perfect for a girl whose essence transcends the ordinary.

Famous Historical Figures with the Name Leila

1. Leila Bent Moosa

• Historical Era: Early Islamic Period
• Key Contributions: Known for her romantic poetry and as a part of the famous poem “Layla and Majnun.”
• Cultural Impact: Her name and story have been immortalized in the Persian epic by Nizami Ganjavi, influencing countless poems, books, and artworks.

2. Leila Ahmed

• Historical Era: Contemporary
• Key Contributions: Egyptian-American scholar of Islam and Islamic feminism.
• Cultural Impact: Ahmed’s book “Women and Gender in Islam” has had a profound impact on the study of gender in the Muslim world and has contributed to more inclusive and diverse academic discussions.

Usage Over Time 

Leila has consistently been a beloved name, especially in Arabic-speaking countries. In the English-speaking world, its popularity surged in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), Leila has seen a steady climb in popularity in the United States, making it into the top 300 names in recent decades. Its timeless nature and romantic connotations have helped it maintain a solid presence.

Pronunciation Guide

Leila is pronounced as “Lay-lah.” The phonetic simplicity of the name generally allows for easy pronunciation across various languages and cultures. Alternative spellings like Laila and Layla also share the same pronunciation.

Biblical Context

While Leila is not a name that appears in the Bible, it holds significant weight in other religious and historical texts, particularly in Islamic tradition due to its etymology and cultural history.

Additional Unique Information

Numerology

In numerology, the name Leila resonates with the number 3, symbolizing creativity, inspiration, and self-expression. 

Variations

Leila has several variants including Laila, Layla, and Leyla, each maintaining the same lovely meaning.

Cultural Variants

The name is versatile and exists in various forms across different cultures, including Lejla in Bosnian, Leela in Hindi, and Lealah in Hebrew.

Popularity Information

Leila experienced notable popularity in the early 2000s, maintaining its charm through the 2010s. According to the SSA, Leila was among the top 200 names in the United States during these decades, highlighting its enduring appeal.

In conclusion, the name Leila is a beautiful blend of night and beauty, carrying rich historical and cultural significance. Its timeless elegance, melodious pronunciation, and evocative meaning make it a wonderful choice for a baby girl. Expectant parents looking for a poetic and romantic name steeped in history will find Leila an excellent option.

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