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What Does the Name Leila Mean?

Origins and Meaning of the Name Leila

Leila is an Arabic name that means 'night' or 'dark beauty'. It is derived from the Arabic word 'laylah', which is also the name of the Arabic goddess of night. In Islamic tradition, Leila is the name of one of the wives of the Prophet Muhammad. The name has been popular in the Middle East and North Africa for centuries, and has also gained popularity in other parts of the world in recent years.

Popularity of the Name Leila

Leila has been a popular name in Arabic-speaking countries for centuries, and has also gained popularity in other parts of the world. In the United States, the name Leila first appeared on the baby name charts in the early 1900s, and has been steadily rising in popularity ever since. In 2019, Leila was ranked as the 246th most popular name for girls in the United States. The name is also popular in other countries, such as France, Germany, and the United Kingdom.

Variations of the Name Leila

Leila has several variations and spellings in different languages and cultures. In Arabic, the name can also be spelled as Layla, Laila, or Leyla. In Persian, the name is spelled as Leila or Leyla. In Hebrew, the name is spelled as Lila or Lilah. In Turkish, the name is spelled as Leyla or Lejla. In Indian and Pakistani cultures, the name is spelled as Laila or Leela. Despite the different spellings, the name retains its beautiful meaning and significance across different cultures.

Famous People with the Name Leila

There have been several famous people throughout history with the name Leila. One of the most famous is Leila Khaled, a Palestinian activist who became famous for her involvement in airplane hijackings in the 1960s and 1970s. Another famous Leila is Leila Hatami, an Iranian actress who has appeared in several Iranian and international films. In addition, there have been several fictional characters with the name Leila, including Leila Crane in Alfred Hitchcock's film 'Psycho' and Leila Kalomi in the original 'Star Trek' series.

Choosing Leila as a Baby Name

If you are considering naming your baby girl Leila, you are choosing a beautiful and meaningful name with a rich history and significance. The name Leila is perfect for parents who want a name that is both unique and traditional, and has a beautiful meaning. Whether you choose to spell it as Leila, Layla, Laila, or Leyla, the name will always retain its beauty and significance.

Conclusion

Leila is a beautiful Arabic name that has a rich history and meaning. Whether you are looking for a unique and traditional name for your baby girl, or simply want to learn more about the origins and significance of the name Leila, this article has provided you with all the information you need. From its origins in Arabic mythology to its popularity around the world, the name Leila is a timeless and beautiful choice for any parent.