Lela

Girl Name
Origin:hebrew
Pronunciation:/ˈleɪlə/

Lela: 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".

Lela has maintained its appeal as a feminine name in modern times while preserving its Hebrew roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "This name derives from the Arabic triconsonantal root: “l-y-l (lamedh-yodh-lamedh)" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.

Quick Facts About Lela

Quick facts about Lela
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

How to Pronounce Lela

Lela is pronounced /ˈleɪlə/(Arabic)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

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

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Lela is predominantly used in english speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.

english
Name Relationships

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Lela
What does the name Lela mean?
Lela 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 Lela 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, Lela's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Lela?
Lela 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. The name remains closely tied to english naming traditions while occasionally appearing in 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. Lela developed as a form of Layla, adapting over time while keeping its connection to the original name.
Is Lela a boy or girl name?
Lela 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, Lela 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 Lela?
Lela is pronounced "/ˈleɪlə/". This pronunciation follows ar language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Lela is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with hebrew names, listening to a native speaker say Lela can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root L-Y-L > LAYLA influences how Lela sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Lela?
Lela is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Lela offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Lela'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, Lela holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Lela?
Lela is a form of Layla. Over time, Layla developed into several variations, with Lela 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 Lela might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In english, Lela may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Lela commonly used?
Lela is used primarily in english naming traditions. Though hebrew in origin, Lela found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. 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 Lela into their naming traditions. A child named Lela 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, Lela 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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