“'Rilla' gained notoriety from the novel 'Rilla of Ingleside' by L”
American origin · Girl name
♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls
#11972US 2023
8Births / yr
↓Falling
2.6kAll-time births
📅 Since 188000.02% of births at peak
How to pronounce Rilla
RIL·uh
/ˈrɪl.ə/ · stress on RIL · 2 syllables
“'Rilla' gained notoriety from the novel 'Rilla of Ingleside' by L”
American origin · Girl name
What does Rilla mean and where does it come from?
'Rilla' gained notoriety from the novel 'Rilla of Ingleside' by L.M. Montgomery, published in 1921. It is thought to be a diminutive form of Arabella or Marilla and conveys a whimsical charm. The name has seen a revival in some circles due to its literary associations and quaintness. The character R
Cultural significance
Rilla has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #371 in 1881 — currently #11972 in the US.
Falling — down 1725 spots — currently #11972 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#11972 · Top 8.8%
1930
1935
1940
1945
1950
1955
1960
1965
1970
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#11972
8
▼ down 1725 · -20% births
2022
#10247
10
▼ down 2298 · -29% births
2021
#7949
14
▼ down 793 · -7% births
2020
#7156
15
▲ up 2313 · +36% births
2015
#9469
11
▲ up 316
2010
#9785
11
▼ down 1786 · +120% births
1970
#7999
5
▼ down 3169 · -37% births
1965
#4830
8
▼ down 391 · -11% births
1960
#4439
9
▼ down 2214 · -62% births
1955
#2225
24
▲ up 1200 · +140% births
1950
#3425
10
▼ down 1681 · -57% births
1945
#1744
23
▼ down 427 · -28% births
1940
#1317
32
▲ up 99 · +19% births
1935
#1416
27
▼ down 46 · -13% births
1930
#1370
31
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Rilla
1900Rank #505
53
#4316
↘Falling
1900 - 202321 years
The story of Rilla
Rilla has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 2,606 total births recorded, Rilla remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #417 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #11972 in 2023.
Rilla means "English" — 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 Rilla?
Rilla is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Rilla have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Rilla?
Rilla 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.
How do you pronounce the name Rilla?
Rilla is a two-syllable name pronounced R IH1 L AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Rilla trending right now?
Rilla is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.
Sibling names that pair with Rilla
For a sister
Rilla & Hazel♡
Rilla & Josie♡
Rilla & Georgia♡
Rilla & Walter♡
For a brother
Rilla & John♡
Rilla & Josie♡
Rilla & Georgia♡
Rilla & Walter♡
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