What does Lilla mean and where does it come from?
Lilla has origins in Sweden and can also be regarded as a diminutive form of various names. The meaning 'lily' symbolizes purity and beauty, particularly in various cultures. Lilla has been used in English-speaking countries since the late 19th century.
Cultural significance
Lilla has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Swedish-speaking communities, where it reflects values of the lily.
Peak popularity
Reached #262 in 1880 — currently #5047 in the US.
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Related Reading
Swedish-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Lilla?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Lilla?
Lilla works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Lilla Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Lilla Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Lilla Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Lilla Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Lilla Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
Lilla Brynn
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Lilla right now?
Falling — down 705 spots — currently #5047 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #5047 | 26 | ▼ down 705 · -21% births |
| 2024 | #4342 | 33 | ▲ up 595 · +22% births |
| 2023 | #4937 | 27 | ▲ up 168 · +4% births |
| 2022 | #5105 | 26 | ▲ up 570 · +18% births |
| 2021 | #5675 | 22 | ▲ up 358 · +16% births |
| 2020 | #6033 | 19 | ▼ down 2277 · -52% births |
| 2015 | #3756 | 40 | ▲ up 264 · +8% births |
| 2010 | #4020 | 37 | ▲ up 351 · +19% births |
| 2005 | #4371 | 31 | ▲ up 4164 · +182% births |
| 2000 | #8535 | 11 | ▲ up 4849 · +120% births |
| 1995 | #13384 | 5 | ▼ down 3190 · -29% births |
| 1990 | #10194 | 7 | ▼ down 4653 · -42% births |
| 1980 | #5541 | 12 | ▼ down 29 · +20% births |
| 1975 | #5512 | 10 | ▼ down 752 · -9% births |
| 1970 | #4760 | 11 | — |
The story of Lilla
Lilla has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 4,303 total births recorded, Lilla remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #262 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #4937 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Lilla in 1880:
Lilla by decade
Lilla peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 408 | |
| 1890s | 465 | |
| 1900s | 431 | |
| 1910s | 587 | |
| 1920s ★ | 657 | |
| 1930s | 389 | |
| 1940s | 289 | |
| 1950s | 158 | |
| 1960s | 107 | |
| 1970s | 64 | |
| 1980s | 26 | |
| 1990s | 55 | |
| 2000s | 276 | |
| 2010s | 372 | |
| 2020s | 78 | |
💎With 4,303 total births, Lilla is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Lilla?
What names sound and feel like Lilla?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Lilla also consider these
How is Lilla written in other languages?
What are the boy versions of Lilla?
Common questions about the name Lilla
What does the name Lilla mean?
Lilla means "the lily" — a name rooted in Swedish 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 Lilla?
Lilla 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 Lilla?
Lilla originates from Swedish tradition. Swedish names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Lilla a common or rare name?
Lilla is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Lilla?
Lilla 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.