What does Leala mean and where does it come from?
Leala is a variant of the name Leila, which has Arabic origins meaning 'night' or 'dark beauty.' In the context of loyalty, Leala is often interpreted as someone reliable and steadfast. The name has become increasingly popular in modern times, particularly in the U.S. among parents looking for uniqu
Cultural significance
Leala has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of loyalty.
Peak popularity
Reached #918 in 1884 — currently #14392 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Leala?
Leala works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Leala Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Leala Rose
Floral · soft ending
Leala Mae
Sweet · timeless
Leala Claire
French influence · crisp
Leala Jane
Literary · strong
Leala Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Leala right now?
Falling — down 5011 spots — currently #14392 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #14392 | 6 | ▼ down 5011 · -45% births |
| 2022 | #9381 | 11 | ▼ down 640 · -8% births |
| 2021 | #8741 | 12 | ▲ up 2269 · +50% births |
| 2020 | #11010 | 8 | ▼ down 858 · -20% births |
| 2015 | #10152 | 10 | ▼ down 5175 · -64% births |
| 2010 | #4977 | 28 | ▼ down 482 · -7% births |
| 2005 | #4495 | 30 | ▲ up 8698 · +400% births |
| 2000 | #13193 | 6 | ▼ down 2452 · +20% births |
| 1985 | #10741 | 5 | ▼ down 3920 · -44% births |
| 1980 | #6821 | 9 | ▲ up 395 · +29% births |
| 1975 | #7216 | 7 | ▼ down 617 · +40% births |
| 1965 | #6599 | 5 | ▼ down 1238 |
| 1950 | #5361 | 5 | ▼ down 1971 · -37% births |
| 1930 | #3390 | 8 | ▲ up 680 · +14% births |
| 1925 | #4070 | 7 | — |
The story of Leala
Leala has been a beloved American name for over 140 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1884. With 829 total births recorded, Leala remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #1687 in 1910, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #14392 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Leala in 1884:
Leala by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 7 | |
| 1900s | 15 | |
| 1910s | 65 | |
| 1920s | 55 | |
| 1930s | 34 | |
| 1940s | 23 | |
| 1950s | 31 | |
| 1960s | 54 | |
| 1970s | 37 | |
| 1980s | 69 | |
| 1990s | 43 | |
| 2000s ★ | 227 | |
| 2010s | 161 | |
| 2020s | 8 | |
💎Leala has only 829 total recorded births since 1884 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Leala?
What names sound and feel like Leala?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Leala also consider these
Common questions about the name Leala
What does the name Leala mean?
Leala means "Loyalty" — a name rooted in American 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 Leala?
Leala 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 Leala?
Leala originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Leala a common or rare name?
Leala is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Leala?
Leala naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.