Laila

Girl Name
Origin:hebrew
Pronunciation:/ˈlaɪlə/

Laila: a female name of Hebrew origin meaning "This name derives from the Arabic triconsonantal root: “l-y-l (lamedh-yodh-lamedh)". It derives from the Hebrew word "L-Y-L > LAYLA".

Parents seeking a meaningful feminine name often discover Laila, drawn to its Hebrew heritage and beautiful significance: "This name derives from the Arabic triconsonantal root: “l-y-l (lamedh-yodh-lamedh)". This name offers a perfect blend of cultural depth and personal meaning, making it a timeless choice for families around the world.

Quick Facts About Laila

Quick facts about Laila
OriginHebrew, Arabic
GenderGirl name
PopularityModerately popular

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name derives from the Arabic triconsonantal root: “l-y-l (lamedh-yodh-lamedh).” The name Layla meaning “night, born at night, dark-haired beauty, dark beauty,” and is linked to the Hebrew name transliterated “Laylah.” It is an internationally-used Arabic feminine given name originating in the Semitic languages. The name has long been used in Arab and Persian folklore, poetry, and literature. For example, the 7th-century Arab poet Qays addressed romantic poems to a woman called Layla. The story of “Qays and Layla” or Layla and Majnun became a popular romance in the medieval Arab World and Persia, and the use of the name spread accordingly; it gained popularity further afield in the Muslim World, among the Turkic peoples and in the Balkans and India.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

L-Y-L > LAYLA

Other Scripts

Arabic (ليلى)

How to Pronounce Laila

Laila is pronounced /ˈlaɪlə/(Arabic)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Lail-a
  2. Say it like: "LAEEHLOOH"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Laila enjoys international appeal, used in 9 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, arabic, norwegian, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.

englisharabicnorwegianicelandicswedishdanishfaroesefinnishgreenlandic
Frequently Asked Questions About Laila
What does the name Laila mean?
Laila means "This name derives from the Arabic triconsonantal root: “l-y-l (lamedh-yodh-lamedh).” The name Layla meaning “night, born at night, dark-haired beauty, dark beauty,” and is linked to the Hebrew name transliterated “Laylah.” It is an internationally-used Arabic feminine given name originating in the Semitic languages. The name has long been used in Arab and Persian folklore, poetry, and literature. For example, the 7th-century Arab poet Qays addressed romantic poems to a woman called Layla. The story of “Qays and Layla” or Layla and Majnun became a popular romance in the medieval Arab World and Persia, and the use of the name spread accordingly; it gained popularity further afield in the Muslim World, among the Turkic peoples and in the Balkans and India.". The name comes from L-Y-L > LAYLA. In its original form, the name derives from L-Y-L (ليل) Layla (ليلى) Laila (לילה). This hebrew name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Laila for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Arabic triconsonantal root: “l-y-l (lamedh-yodh-lamedh).” The name Layla meaning “night, born at night, dark-haired beauty, dark beauty,” and is linked to the Hebrew name transliterated “Laylah.” It is an internationally-used Arabic feminine given name originating in the Semitic languages. The name has long been used in Arab and Persian folklore, poetry, and literature. For example, the 7th-century Arab poet Qays addressed romantic poems to a woman called Layla. The story of “Qays and Layla” or Layla and Majnun became a popular romance in the medieval Arab World and Persia, and the use of the name spread accordingly; it gained popularity further afield in the Muslim World, among the Turkic peoples and in the Balkans and India." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Laila's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Laila?
Laila has hebrew and arabic origins. The name traces back to L-Y-L > LAYLA. The original form L-Y-L (ليل) Layla (ليلى) Laila (לילה) shows the name's roots in its native language. In its native script, Laila is written as Arabic (ليلى). From its hebrew roots, Laila spread to become common in english, arabic, norwegian, icelandic and other cultures. The hebrew meaning "This name derives from the Arabic triconsonantal root: “l-y-l (lamedh-yodh-lamedh).” The name Layla meaning “night, born at night, dark-haired beauty, dark beauty,” and is linked to the Hebrew name transliterated “Laylah.” It is an internationally-used Arabic feminine given name originating in the Semitic languages. The name has long been used in Arab and Persian folklore, poetry, and literature. For example, the 7th-century Arab poet Qays addressed romantic poems to a woman called Layla. The story of “Qays and Layla” or Layla and Majnun became a popular romance in the medieval Arab World and Persia, and the use of the name spread accordingly; it gained popularity further afield in the Muslim World, among the Turkic peoples and in the Balkans and India." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Laila a boy or girl name?
Laila is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In hebrew tradition, Laila has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Arabic triconsonantal root: “l-y-l (lamedh-yodh-lamedh).” The name Layla meaning “night, born at night, dark-haired beauty, dark beauty,” and is linked to the Hebrew name transliterated “Laylah.” It is an internationally-used Arabic feminine given name originating in the Semitic languages. The name has long been used in Arab and Persian folklore, poetry, and literature. For example, the 7th-century Arab poet Qays addressed romantic poems to a woman called Layla. The story of “Qays and Layla” or Layla and Majnun became a popular romance in the medieval Arab World and Persia, and the use of the name spread accordingly; it gained popularity further afield in the Muslim World, among the Turkic peoples and in the Balkans and India." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Laila?
Laila is pronounced "/ˈlaɪlə/". This pronunciation follows ar language patterns. In its original script, the name appears as Arabic (ليلى), which helps explain how native speakers pronounce it. As a single-syllable name, Laila is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, arabic, norwegian, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with hebrew names, listening to a native speaker say Laila can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root L-Y-L > LAYLA influences how Laila sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Laila?
Laila is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Laila offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Laila's popularity may vary between hebrew communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Arabic triconsonantal root: “l-y-l (lamedh-yodh-lamedh).” The name Layla meaning “night, born at night, dark-haired beauty, dark beauty,” and is linked to the Hebrew name transliterated “Laylah.” It is an internationally-used Arabic feminine given name originating in the Semitic languages. The name has long been used in Arab and Persian folklore, poetry, and literature. For example, the 7th-century Arab poet Qays addressed romantic poems to a woman called Layla. The story of “Qays and Layla” or Layla and Majnun became a popular romance in the medieval Arab World and Persia, and the use of the name spread accordingly; it gained popularity further afield in the Muslim World, among the Turkic peoples and in the Balkans and India." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Laila holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Laila commonly used?
Laila spans multiple cultures, including english, arabic, norwegian, and 6 other traditions. Though hebrew in origin, Laila found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Laila, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Arabic triconsonantal root: “l-y-l (lamedh-yodh-lamedh).” The name Layla meaning “night, born at night, dark-haired beauty, dark beauty,” and is linked to the Hebrew name transliterated “Laylah.” It is an internationally-used Arabic feminine given name originating in the Semitic languages. The name has long been used in Arab and Persian folklore, poetry, and literature. For example, the 7th-century Arab poet Qays addressed romantic poems to a woman called Layla. The story of “Qays and Layla” or Layla and Majnun became a popular romance in the medieval Arab World and Persia, and the use of the name spread accordingly; it gained popularity further afield in the Muslim World, among the Turkic peoples and in the Balkans and India." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Laila into their naming traditions. A child named Laila will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Laila is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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