“Night” — Associated with meanings relating to beauty
Arabic origin · Unisex name
♂ 0% boys♀ 100% girls
#594US 2023
1.6kBirths / yr
→Stable
42.6kAll-time births
📅 Since 188000.19% of births at peak
How to pronounce Lela
LEE·luh
/ˈliː.lə/ · stress on LEE · 2 syllables
“Night”
Associated with meanings relating to beauty · Arabic origin
What does Lela mean and where does it come from?
Lela is derived from the Arabic word 'Laila' (ليلى), meaning 'night'. The name is popular in various cultures and can also be associated with meanings relating to beauty, particularly in certain African cultures. Lela is also a variant of the name 'Layla', which has seen considerable popularity due
Cultural significance
Lela has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Arabic-speaking communities, where it reflects values of night.
Holding steady — currently #594 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#594 · Top 0.44%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#594
1,606
▲ up 5 · +1% births
2022
#599
1,586
▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021
#604
1,556
▲ up 1189 · +1328% births
2020
#1793
109
▼ down 269 · -26% births
2015
#1524
147
▲ up 10 · +1% births
2010
#1534
145
▼ down 56 · +2% births
2005
#1478
142
▲ up 54 · +20% births
2000
#1532
118
▲ up 777 · +107% births
1995
#2309
57
▼ down 446 · -25% births
1990
#1863
76
▼ down 489 · -19% births
1985
#1374
94
▲ up 101 · +15% births
1980
#1475
82
▼ down 174 · -4% births
1975
#1301
85
▼ down 340 · -36% births
1970
#961
132
▼ down 143 · -10% births
1965
#818
147
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Lela
1900Rank #122
1,606
#857
↘Falling
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Lela
Lela has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. A total of 42,596 babies have received this name. Once ranked #142 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #594 in 2023. Lela is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Lela means "Night" — a name rooted in Arabic 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 Lela?
Lela is currently ranked #594 as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Lela?
Lela originates from Arabic tradition. Arabic 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 Lela?
Lela is a two-syllable name pronounced L IY1 L AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Lela more of a girl or boy name?
Lela is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
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