If you’re searching for a name that exudes beauty and grace, Laila might be the perfect choice for your little one. This name has Arabic origins and means “night” or “dark.” It’s a popular name among Muslim families, but it has gained popularity in other cultures as well.
Laila is a variation of the name Layla, which has Hebrew origins and also means “night” or “dark.” The name has been used for centuries and has been made famous by many notable figures, including the former-boxer daughter of Muhammad Ali and actor Shawn Wayans’ daughter. It’s also a popular name in Finland, where the Sami people use it in place of the Scandinavian name Helga.
Overall, Laila is a beautiful and versatile name that has a rich history and meaning. It’s a perfect name for parents who are looking for something unique and meaningful for their little girl.
Origin of the Name Laila
Laila is a name with a rich history and meaning. The name has its roots in the Arabic language, where it means “night” or “dark beauty.” It is a popular name among Muslim families and is often given to baby girls born during the night.
The name Laila has also been adopted by Turkic peoples, where it is spelled as Leyla or Leila. In Turkey, the name is associated with the story of Leyla and Majnun, a tragic love story that has been retold in many different forms of literature and art.
In the Balkans, the name Laila is also popular, particularly among Bosniak and Albanian communities. It is often spelled as Lajla or Lejla and is considered a beautiful and unique name.
Overall, the name Laila has a timeless and universal appeal, with its meaning of “night” evoking a sense of mystery and beauty. It is a name that has been passed down through generations and continues to be a popular choice for parents around the world.
Popularity of the Name Laila
Laila is a beautiful and unique name that has gained popularity in recent years. According to the Social Security Administration, Laila is currently ranked #242 in the United States for baby girl names.
The name Laila has been steadily increasing in popularity since the early 2000s, and it is no surprise why. Laila is not only a lovely name, but it also has a beautiful meaning. In Arabic, Laila means “night” or “holy,” and it is a name that is often associated with beauty and elegance.
In recent years, the name Laila has become even more popular thanks to famous personalities. For example, Laila Ali, the daughter of legendary boxer Muhammad Ali, has helped to bring attention to the name. In addition, the name has also been used in popular culture, such as in the television show “Lost.”
Overall, the popularity of the name Laila is a testament to its beauty and meaning. If you are looking for a unique and lovely name for your baby girl, Laila is definitely worth considering.
Famous People Named Laila
The name Laila has been popular for centuries, and it has been used as the name of various famous people. Here are some of the most notable people named Laila:
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Muhammad Ali: The famous boxer named his daughter Laila Ali, who also became a boxer and a television personality. She was born on December 30, 1977, and she won multiple boxing titles during her career.
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Laila Morse: The English actress is best known for playing the role of Mo Harris in the soap opera “EastEnders”. She was born on August 1, 1945, and she has also appeared in several films and television shows.
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Laila Mehdin: The Indian actress has appeared in several Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam films. She was born on October 24, 1980, and she has won several awards for her performances.
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Laila Lalami: The Moroccan-American author has written several books, including “The Moor’s Account” and “Secret Son”. She was born on November 15, 1968, and she has won numerous awards for her writing.
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Laila Stein: The German footballer has played for several clubs, including Bayern Munich and the German national team. She was born on April 17, 1994, and she has won several titles during her career.
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Laila Ali Abdulla: The Bahraini athlete has competed in several sports, including taekwondo, karate, and athletics. She was born on September 21, 1984, and she has won several medals in international competitions.
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Laila Rouass: The English actress has appeared in several films and television shows, including “Holby City” and “Primeval”. She was born on June 22, 1971, and she has also worked as a presenter and a model.
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Laila Amaria Ali: The American boxer and television personality is the daughter of Muhammad Ali and Veronica Porché Ali. She was born on December 30, 1977, and she has won multiple boxing titles during her career.
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Laila Markus: The Swedish politician has served as a member of the Swedish parliament and as a member of the European Parliament. She was born on February 12, 1953, and she has worked on several committees related to foreign affairs and human rights.
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Laila Bagge: The Swedish singer and television personality has released several albums and worked as a judge on the Swedish version of “Idol”. She was born on December 15, 1972, and she has also worked as a songwriter and a music producer.
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Laila Freivalds: The Swedish politician has served as the Minister for Justice and the Minister for Foreign Affairs. She was born on June 22, 1942, and she has also worked as a lawyer and a judge.
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Laila Harré: The New Zealand politician has served as the Minister of Women’s Affairs and the Minister of Youth Affairs. She was born on March 8, 1966, and she has also worked as a trade unionist and a political activist.
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Laila Hirvisaari: The Finnish author has written several books, including “The Far Side of the Ice” and “The Winter War”. She was born on March 12, 1938, and she has won several awards for her writing.
These are just a few of the famous people named Laila. The name has been used by people from various countries and fields, and it continues to be a popular name for girls today.
Laila in Literature and Media
Laila is a popular name that has been used in literature and media for centuries. One of the most famous stories that feature the name Laila is the story of Layla and Majnun, which is based on the romantic poems of Qays Ibn Al-Mulawwah in 7th century Arabia. Qays was nicknamed Majnoon Layla, which means “madly in love with Layla,” referring to his cousin Layla Al-Amiriah. This story has been adapted into various forms of media, including movies, TV shows, and books.
One of the most well-known books that feature the name Laila is “A Thousand Splendid Suns” by Khaled Hosseini. The book tells the story of two women, Mariam and Laila, who are brought together by war, loss, and fate. Laila is a strong and resilient character who struggles to survive in a male-dominated society and fights for her rights and the rights of her children.
Laila has also been used as a character name in various TV shows and movies. For example, in the TV show “Will and Grace,” Laila is the name of one of Will’s love interests. In the movie “The Mummy Returns,” Laila is the name of the main female character.
In summary, Laila is a name that has been used in literature and media for centuries. The story of Layla and Majnun is one of the most famous stories that feature the name Laila, and it has been adapted into various forms of media. “A Thousand Splendid Suns” is a book that features a strong and resilient character named Laila, and the name has also been used as a character name in various TV shows and movies.
Variations and Similar Names
The name Laila has various variations and similar names that are popular in different parts of the world. Some of the most common variations of Laila are:
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Leila: The name Leila is of Arabic origin, meaning “night beauty.” It is a popular alternative to Laila in many countries.
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Layla: Layla is an ancient Arabic name that has many meanings, including “night,” “intoxication,” and “dark beauty.” It is a popular name in the United States and many other English-speaking countries.
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Leilah: Leilah is a modern variation of the name Leila. It is also a popular name in the United States.
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Lailah: Lailah is a unique spelling of the name Laila. It is a popular name in the United States.
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Leyla: Leyla is a Turkish and Azerbaijani variation of the name Leila. It is a popular name in Turkey and Azerbaijan.
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Lilia: Lilia is a Latin name that means “lily.” It is a popular name in many Spanish-speaking countries.
Some other similar names to Laila include Lia, Livia, Lilah, Lila, Lacey, Lara, Kylie, Leah, and Lena. These names have different meanings and origins but are similar in sound and style to Laila.
Overall, Laila and its variations are beautiful and unique names that have been popular for centuries. They are perfect for parents who are looking for a name that is both exotic and easy to pronounce.
Nicknames and Sibling Names
Laila is a beautiful name that has a few different variations, including Leila, Layla, and Lila. It is a name that has been growing in popularity in recent years, and it is easy to see why. It is a name that is both elegant and strong, and it has a beautiful meaning that makes it even more special.
Nicknames
If you are looking for a cute nickname for your little Laila, there are a few options to choose from. Some popular nicknames for Laila include La La, Lulu, and Lay Lay. Other options include Ayla, Lala, and Lays.
Sibling Names
If you are looking for sibling names that go well with Laila, there are many options to consider. Some popular sibling names for Laila include Ava, Mia, and Olivia. Other options include Anya, Leah, and Logan.
Middle Names
When it comes to middle names for Laila, there are many options to choose from. Some popular middle names for Laila include Rose, Grace, and Marie. Other options include Elizabeth, Sophia, and Isabella.
Overall, Laila is a beautiful name that has many different variations and can be paired with a variety of middle names and sibling names. Whether you are looking for a cute nickname or trying to find the perfect name for a sibling, there are many options to consider when it comes to the name Laila.
Laila in Different Cultures
The name Laila has roots in various cultures and communities, and it has different meanings and associations depending on the region. Here are some examples of how Laila is perceived in different cultures:
Scandinavia
In Scandinavia, Laila is a popular feminine given name. It is often spelled as Leila or Leyla, and it has been used since the 19th century. The name is believed to have originated from the Arabic name Layla, which means “night” or “dark beauty.” In Scandinavia, Laila is associated with the Sami people, who are the indigenous Finno-Ugric people of Lapland, Finland.
India
In India, Laila is often spelled as Layla, and it is associated with the Hindu goddess of beauty and fertility, Parvati. The name is also found in Sufi poetry and literature, where it symbolizes the beloved or the divine. In modern times, the name Layla has become popular among Indian parents, and it is often given to girls born during the night.
Finland
In Finland, Laila is used as a Sami name, which means that it is a name of the indigenous Finno-Ugric people of Lapland, Finland. The Sami people use Laila in place of the Scandinavian name Helga.
Muslim Communities
In Muslim communities, Laila is a popular name for girls, and it is often spelled as Layla or Leila. The name is associated with the Arabic word for night, and it has a romantic and mystical connotation. The name gained popularity in the West after the publication of the poem “Layla and Majnun,” which tells the story of a young man who falls in love with a beautiful girl named Layla.
In conclusion, Laila is a name with a rich cultural heritage, and it has different meanings and associations depending on the region. Whether you prefer the Arabic spelling or the Scandinavian one, Laila is a beautiful name that is sure to make your daughter stand out.
Laila in Music and Songs
The name Laila has been a popular choice for songwriters and musicians across different genres. Here are a few notable examples:
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Layla by Derek and the Dominos: This iconic song was written by Eric Clapton and Jim Gordon and released in 1970. The song is said to have been inspired by the Persian love story of Layla and Majnun. The song has since become a classic and has been covered by many artists over the years.
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Laila Main Laila from the movie Qurbani: This popular Bollywood song was originally released in 1980 and was composed by Kalyanji-Anandji. The song was later remade for the 2017 movie Raees and features vocals by Pawni Pandey.
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Laila by Cheb Khaled: This song is a popular Arabic song that was released in 1996. The song features vocals by Algerian singer Cheb Khaled and has become a staple at weddings and other celebrations.
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Laila by Amr Diab: This song is another popular Arabic song that was released in 2003. The song features vocals by Egyptian singer Amr Diab and has been covered by many other artists over the years.
The name Laila has also been used in other songs and works of music, such as the song “Laila” by Don Omar, “Laila” by The Mystic Moods Orchestra, and “Laila” by Belly.
Overall, the name Laila has been a popular choice for songwriters and musicians across different genres and cultures. Its unique sound and meaning have inspired many beautiful works of music over the years.
Laila in Sports
Laila is a name that has been associated with sports, particularly boxing. Here are some notable athletes with the name Laila:
Laila Ali
Laila Ali is a retired American professional boxer who is the daughter of the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali. She began her boxing career in 1999 and retired undefeated in 2007 with a record of 24 wins, 21 of which were knockouts. She won multiple world titles in the super middleweight and light heavyweight divisions.
Aside from boxing, Laila Ali has also ventured into other fields such as television hosting, writing, and cooking. She has authored a cookbook and has appeared as a host and judge on various cooking shows.
Layla McCarter
Layla McCarter is an American professional boxer who has been active in the sport since 1998. She has held multiple world titles in various weight classes and has a professional record of 43 wins, 13 losses, and 5 draws.
McCarter has been known for her technical skills and has been regarded as one of the best female boxers of her generation. She has also been an advocate for women’s boxing and has been vocal about the need for more recognition and opportunities for female fighters.
In conclusion, Laila is a name that has been associated with some of the most accomplished female boxers in the sport’s history. Laila Ali and Layla McCarter have both made significant contributions to the sport and have been inspirations to many aspiring female fighters.
Laila in Fashion and Beauty
The name Laila has been a popular choice for fashion and beauty brands. Leila Goldkuhl, an American fashion model, has been featured in many fashion campaigns and runway shows. Her unique look has made her a sought-after model in the industry.
Leila Pahlavi, the youngest daughter of the last Shah of Iran, was known for her fashion sense and style. She was often seen wearing elegant and fashionable outfits, which were admired by many.
Laila Lopes, a former Miss Universe winner, is also known for her fashion sense. She has been featured in many fashion magazines and has walked the runway for several designers.
In the beauty industry, Laila has been used as a name for various products, including perfumes and cosmetics. For example, Laila by Geir Ness is a popular fragrance that has won several awards. The scent is described as fresh and clean, with notes of Norwegian wildflowers.
In addition to fragrances, Laila has also been used as a name for cosmetics. Laila London is a beauty brand that offers a range of natural and organic skincare products. Their products are made with high-quality ingredients and are cruelty-free.
Overall, the name Laila has been associated with fashion and beauty, and has been used by many brands to promote their products. Whether it’s a fragrance or a skincare product, Laila has become a popular name in the industry.
Laila in Film and Television
The name Laila has been used in various films and television shows throughout the years. Here are a few examples of notable uses of the name:
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Laila Rouass: British actress Laila Rouass has appeared in several television shows and films, including “Primeval,” “Holby City,” and “Footballers’ Wives.” She was also a contestant on the UK reality show “Strictly Come Dancing” in 2009.
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Leila Hyams: American actress Leila Hyams appeared in several silent films and early talkies in the 1920s and 1930s, including “The Big House,” “Freaks,” and “Island of Lost Souls.”
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Layla El: Professional wrestler and model Layla El is best known for her time in World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). She was the winner of the 2006 WWE Diva Search and went on to become a two-time WWE Women’s Champion.
The name Laila has also been used in various films and television shows as a character name. For example:
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In the 2016 film “Laila O Laila,” Laila is the name of the female lead character.
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In the 2018 Indian television series “Naagin 3,” Laila is the name of a character portrayed by actress Karishma Tanna.
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In the 2016 Pakistani film “Lahore Se Aagey,” Laila is the name of a character portrayed by actress Saba Qamar.
Overall, the name Laila has been used in a variety of ways in film and television, from character names to the names of notable actresses.
Laila in Literature
The name Laila has been used in many works of literature, both ancient and modern. In Arabic literature, the story of Qays and Layla, also known as Layla and Majnun, is a popular tale of unrequited love. Qays, also known as Majnun, was madly in love with his cousin Layla, and his love for her was the subject of many poems and stories. The story has been passed down through the centuries and has been retold in many different languages, including Persian, Turkish, and Indian.
In modern literature, Laila Lalami is a Moroccan-American novelist and essayist. She has written several books, including “The Moor’s Account,” which was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize. Lalami’s work often explores themes of identity, immigration, and the intersection of cultures.
Another notable author named Laila is Laila Stien, a Norwegian writer. She has written several books for children and young adults, including “The Princess on the Glass Hill” and “The Ice Princess.” Her work often draws on Norwegian folklore and mythology.
In Finnish literature, Laila Hirvisaari is a well-known author. She has written several historical novels set in Finland, including “The Red Address Book” and “The Silent Woman.” Her work often explores the lives of ordinary people and the impact of historical events on their lives.
Overall, the name Laila has a rich history in literature, with many notable authors and works associated with it.
Laila in Politics and Activism
Laila is a name that has been associated with several notable figures in politics and activism. Here are a few examples:
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Laila Freivalds: A Swedish politician who served as the Minister for Foreign Affairs from 2003 to 2006. She was also the Minister for Justice from 2000 to 2003. Freivalds was known for her work on human rights and international relations.
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Laila Harré: A New Zealand politician and trade unionist who served as the Minister of Women’s Affairs from 1999 to 2002. She was also the leader of the Alliance Party of New Zealand from 2002 to 2003. Harré was known for her advocacy for workers’ rights and social justice.
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Leila Ben-Gacem: A Tunisian activist and entrepreneur who founded the social enterprise Blue Fish. The organization works to empower women in rural Tunisia by providing them with training and employment opportunities. Ben-Gacem was named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum in 2016.
These women are just a few examples of the many Lailas who have made significant contributions to politics and activism. Their work serves as an inspiration to others who seek to make a positive impact on their communities and the world at large.
Laila in Music
Laila is a name that has been used in music, often as a title or subject of a song. Here are a few examples of Laila’s presence in music:
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Layla Kaylif: Layla Kaylif is a British singer-songwriter who released her debut album “Shakespeare in Love” in 1999. One of the songs on the album is titled “Laila”, which is a beautiful and emotional ballad that showcases Kaylif’s vocal range and songwriting skills. The song tells the story of a woman named Laila who is struggling to find her place in the world, and it is a testament to the power of music to convey complex emotions.
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Leila Mourad: Leila Mourad was an Egyptian singer and actress who was popular in the mid-20th century. She starred in many films and recorded numerous songs, including the classic “Laila, Laila” which was composed by Baligh Hamdi. The song is a romantic ballad that has become a staple of Arabic music and has been covered by many artists over the years.
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Leylah: Leylah is a Canadian singer-songwriter who released her debut album “Leylah” in 2021. One of the songs on the album is titled “Laila”, which is a haunting and atmospheric track that showcases Leylah’s unique voice and songwriting style. The song is about a woman named Laila who is searching for something elusive and mysterious, and it is a testament to Leylah’s ability to create compelling and evocative music.
Overall, Laila has been a popular subject in music, and these artists have created some memorable songs that showcase the beauty and power of the name.