Leilah

Origin

Leilah is of Arabic origin, derived from the root 'layl' meaning 'night'. The name appears in various Middle Eastern and South Asian contexts, often spelled as Layla or Leila. In Australia, the name gained popularity through multicultural influences, especially within Middle Eastern communities. It does not have a documented presence in Aboriginal or Māori naming traditions.

Meaning

The literal translation of Leilah is 'night' or 'dark beauty' in Arabic. In Australian English contexts, it is often associated with the poetic beauty of night or darkness, sometimes symbolising mystery and serenity.

Pronunciation

/laɪˈlaː/ (Australian English) — emphasising the second syllable, with a long 'a' sound in the second syllable, similar to 'Lay-lah' but with a slightly elongated vowel.

Variants & Nicknames

Name Days

• 12 May (International Day of the Midwife - associated with themes of care and nurturing, poetic link to night as sanctuary)
• 17 May (International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia – acknowledging diversity and acceptance)
• No specific Christian or Indigenous name days are associated with Leilah.

Name Pairings

Names that pair well with leilah:

• Amira and Leilah
• Sophie and Leilah
• Olivia and Leilah

Fun Facts

• The name Leilah gained popularity in Australia during the late 20th century as multiculturalism increased.
• Australian singer Leila Lodge is a notable bearer, influencing its popularity among younger generations.
• Leilah remains a popular choice among Australian Muslim communities, often given to reflect cultural heritage.

Personality Traits

Common traits associated with the name leilah:

• Mystical
• Caring
• Poetic
• Serene
• Elegance

Aesthetic Qualities

The name Leilah has a soft, lyrical quality, with flowing vowels and a gentle sound. Its visual form is elegant and balanced, appealing aesthetically in written form.

Geographical Distribution

More common in urban centres such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, particularly among Middle Eastern and South Asian communities. Less prevalent in rural areas.

Numerological Significance

Name number 7, which resonates with introspection, spirituality, and analytical thinking. Often associated with deep thinking and wisdom in numerology.

Astrological Connections

Associated with the Moon in astrology, reflecting qualities of intuition, sensitivity, and reflection. Good matches include Cancer and Pisces zodiac signs.

Historical Context

Leilah, in its various spellings, appears in Middle Eastern poetry and literature, notably in the romantic poetry of the medieval Arabic world. In Australia, the name is modern but culturally connected through immigrant communities. It is also featured in contemporary Australian music and media, embodying multicultural identity.

Linguistic Adaptability

Leilah adapts well across languages, often retaining its phonetic structure. Variants like Layla are used internationally, with spellings adjusted to fit linguistic norms.

Famous People Named leilah

• Leilah Bint Salim (historical figure, Arabic poet)
• Leilah De Meza (Australian artist)
• Leilah Georgiou (Māori community leader)

Popularity in Australia