Leilah

Origin

Leilah is an Arabic name, derived from the Arabic root 'layl' meaning 'night'. It is a variant spelling of Layla, which is popular across the Middle East and in Muslim communities worldwide. The name appears in classical Arabic poetry and literature, notably in the romantic tales and Sufi poetry as a symbol of beauty and night-time serenity.

Meaning

Literal translation: 'Night' or 'Dark beauty'. In the Australian context, it often connotes elegance, mystery, and nocturnal beauty, making it a popular choice for parents seeking a poetic and culturally rich name.

Pronunciation

/laɪˈlɑː/ (Australian English pronunciation: 'lye-LAH') with emphasis on the second syllable, elongated to accentuate the poetic sound of the name in Australian speech.

Variants & Nicknames

Name Days

• 08 May (Arabic culture celebration of the night and poetry)
• Late May (Islamic observance, Ramadan nights)
• None specific in Christian or Indigenous Australian calendars

Name Pairings

Names that pair well with leilah:

• Sophie and Leilah
• Emma and Leilah
• Amira and Leilah

Fun Facts

• Leilah is a popular name among Australian Muslim communities, often chosen for its poetic resonance.
• The name has gained visibility in Australia’s multicultural literature and community events.
• Leilah is sometimes selected for poetic or literary purposes in Australian theatre and film.

Personality Traits

Common traits associated with the name leilah:

• Elegant
• Mystical
• Poetic
• Serene

Aesthetic Qualities

The name has an elegant, flowing visual quality, with soft vowels and lyrical consonants, making it appealing in handwritten and digital typography in Australia.

Geographical Distribution

Most prevalent in New South Wales, Victoria, and the Australian Capital Territory, reflecting higher concentrations of Arabic-speaking and Muslim populations in these regions.

Numerological Significance

Name number 7, associated with introspection, spirituality, and deep thinking, fitting for the poetic and mystical connotations of the name in Australian cultural contexts.

Astrological Connections

Connected with the Moon and night sky, aligning with lunar cycles and the zodiac sign Cancer, which is associated with emotion and intuition—traits often linked to the symbolism of the name.

Historical Context

Leilah, primarily associated with Arabic poetry and cultural narratives, has been adopted by various immigrant communities in Australia. It is celebrated in cultural festivals, poetry slams, and literary events within Islamic and Middle Eastern Australian community circles.

Linguistic Adaptability

The name adapts well to Latin-based scripts; in non-Arabic scripts, it maintains its phonetic integrity. Variations like Layla are common in English and other European languages.

Famous People Named leilah

• Leilah de Meza (Musician)
• Leilah Wight (Artist)
• Leilah Brody (Author, fictional character)

Popularity in Australia