Leila

Girl Name
Origin:hebrew
Pronunciation:/ˈleɪ.lə/

Leila: 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".

Leila is a feminine name that means "This name derives from the Arabic triconsonantal root: “l-y-l (lamedh-yodh-lamedh)". Its Hebrew origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.

Quick Facts About Leila

Quick facts about Leila
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

Georgian (ლეილა) Arabic (ليلى)

How to Pronounce Leila

Leila is pronounced /ˈleɪ.lə/(Arabic)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Leil-a
  2. Say it like: "LEIL-A"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Leila enjoys international appeal, used in 13 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, arabic, french, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.

englisharabicfrenchnorwegianicelandiciranianswedishdanishfinnishhungarian (magyar)georgiangermanwelsh
Name Relationships

Leila is a variant form of Layla, Laila, developed through regional pronunciation differences and linguistic evolution. This variation preserves the essential meaning while offering a unique sound.

Frequently Asked Questions About Leila
What does the name Leila mean?
Leila 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 Leila 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, Leila's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Leila?
Leila 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, Leila is written as Georgian (ლეილა) Arabic (ليلى). From its hebrew roots, Leila spread to become common in english, arabic, french, norwegian 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. Leila developed as a form of Layla, Laila, adapting over time while keeping its connection to the original name.
Is Leila a boy or girl name?
Leila 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, Leila 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 Leila?
Leila is pronounced "/ˈleɪ.lə/". This pronunciation follows ar language patterns. In its original script, the name appears as Georgian (ლეილა) Arabic (ليلى), which helps explain how native speakers pronounce it. As a single-syllable name, Leila is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, arabic, french, 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 Leila can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root L-Y-L > LAYLA influences how Leila sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Leila?
Leila is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Leila offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Leila'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, Leila holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Leila?
Leila is a form of Layla, Laila. Over time, Layla, Laila developed into several variations, with Leila emerging as a distinct form used in certain regions or languages. In hebrew tradition, these variations allow the core name to work across different contexts while maintaining its character. All variations preserve 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.", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to Leila might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In english and arabic, Leila may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Leila commonly used?
Leila spans multiple cultures, including english, arabic, french, and 10 other traditions. Though hebrew in origin, Leila found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Leila, 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 Leila into their naming traditions. A child named Leila 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, Leila 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.

Similar Names

Explore More Names