What does Ila mean and where does it come from?
Ila is derived from Sanskrit and is used mainly in Indian culture but has gained some popularity in English-speaking countries. In Hindu mythology, Ila is known as a significant figure associated with the earth and is sometimes viewed as a goddess. Its usage in the United States is more modern but i
Cultural significance
Ila has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Sanskrit-speaking communities, where it reflects values of sanskrit.
Peak popularity
Reached #237 in 1903 — currently #622 in the US.
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Related Reading
Sanskrit-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Ila?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Ila?
Ila works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Ila Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Ila Rose
Floral · soft ending
Ila Claire
French influence · crisp
Ila Jane
Literary · strong
Ila Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Ila right now?
Rising fast — up 61 spots — currently #622 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #622 | 480 | ▲ up 61 · +12% births |
| 2022 | #683 | 428 | ▲ up 77 · +14% births |
| 2021 | #760 | 376 | ▲ up 104 · +22% births |
| 2020 | #864 | 309 | ▲ up 320 · +45% births |
| 2015 | #1184 | 213 | ▲ up 274 · +37% births |
| 2010 | #1458 | 155 | ▲ up 920 · +109% births |
| 2005 | #2378 | 74 | ▲ up 1077 · +95% births |
| 2000 | #3455 | 38 | ▲ up 2224 · +138% births |
| 1995 | #5679 | 16 | ▼ down 1560 · -33% births |
| 1990 | #4119 | 24 | ▲ up 523 · +50% births |
| 1985 | #4642 | 16 | ▼ down 1570 · -43% births |
| 1980 | #3072 | 28 | ▼ down 615 · -12% births |
| 1975 | #2457 | 32 | ▲ up 402 · +33% births |
| 1970 | #2859 | 24 | ▼ down 941 · -33% births |
| 1965 | #1918 | 36 | — |
The story of Ila
Ila has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. A total of 23,016 babies have received this name. Ila is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Ila in 1903:
Ila by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 354 | |
| 1890s | 1,006 | |
| 1900s | 1,642 | |
| 1910s | 3,968 | |
| 1920s ★ | 5,550 | |
| 1930s | 3,549 | |
| 1940s | 1,765 | |
| 1950s | 1,034 | |
| 1960s | 507 | |
| 1970s | 282 | |
| 1980s | 225 | |
| 1990s | 240 | |
| 2000s | 738 | |
| 2010s | 1,847 | |
| 2020s | 309 | |
What are good nicknames for Ila?
What names sound and feel like Ila?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Ila also consider these
How is Ila written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Ila
What does the name Ila mean?
Ila means "Sanskrit" — a name rooted in Sanskrit tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Ila?
Ila is currently ranked #622 as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Ila have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Ila?
Ila originates from Sanskrit tradition. Sanskrit names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Ila?
Ila is a two-syllable name pronounced IY1 L AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Ila trending right now?
Ila is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.