What does Keila mean and where does it come from?
In Hebrew, the name 'Keila' (כֵּיאְלָה) is associated with a biblical town mentioned in the book of Joshua. The meaning reflects notions of strength and protection, resonating with the idea of a safe haven or stronghold. In contemporary usage, Keila has gained popularity in English-speaking countrie
Cultural significance
Keila has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a citadel or a stronghold..
Peak popularity
Reached #991 in 2001 — currently #2039 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Keila?
Keila works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Keila Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Keila Rose
Floral · soft ending
Keila Mae
Sweet · timeless
Keila Claire
French influence · crisp
Keila Jane
Literary · strong
Keila Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Keila right now?
Rising fast — up 270 spots — currently #2039 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #2039 | 96 | ▲ up 270 · +19% births |
| 2022 | #2309 | 81 | ▼ down 31 |
| 2021 | #2278 | 81 | ▼ down 353 · -17% births |
| 2020 | #1925 | 98 | ▼ down 532 · -42% births |
| 2015 | #1393 | 169 | ▼ down 117 · -10% births |
| 2010 | #1276 | 187 | ▼ down 237 · -19% births |
| 2005 | #1039 | 231 | ▲ up 77 · +26% births |
| 2000 | #1116 | 183 | ▼ down 13 · +14% births |
| 1995 | #1103 | 161 | ▲ up 101 · +14% births |
| 1990 | #1204 | 141 | ▲ up 480 · +104% births |
| 1985 | #1684 | 69 | ▲ up 522 · +50% births |
| 1980 | #2206 | 46 | ▲ up 396 · +53% births |
| 1975 | #2602 | 30 | ▲ up 238 · +20% births |
| 1970 | #2840 | 25 | ▲ up 2841 · +257% births |
| 1965 | #5681 | 7 | — |
The story of Keila
Keila entered American naming records in 1956 and has been in use for over 68 years. With 6,889 total births recorded, Keila remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3207 in 1960 to #2039 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Keila in 2001:
Keila by decade
Keila peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1950s | 34 | |
| 1960s | 158 | |
| 1970s | 388 | |
| 1980s | 745 | |
| 1990s | 1,576 | |
| 2000s ★ | 2,211 | |
| 2010s | 1,679 | |
| 2020s | 98 | |
💎With 6,889 total births, Keila is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Keila?
Famous people named Keila
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Keila (historical community leader)
Keila led communities across the ancient Near East who passed this name through generations.
K(
Keila (historical figure)
Keila bore this name in the Biblical tradition, reflecting its deep roots in Hebrew scripture and culture.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Keila?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Keila also consider these
Common questions about the name Keila
What does the name Keila mean?
Keila means "A citadel or a stronghold." — a name rooted in Hebrew 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 Keila?
Keila is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Keila?
Keila originates from Hebrew tradition. Hebrew 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 Keila?
Keila is a three-syllable name pronounced K EH1 IY1 L AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Keila?
Keila pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Hebrew heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.