Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Leila

      Origin

      Arabic

      Meaning

      Night, Black

      Variations

      Leilah, Leilani, Laila
      The name Leila finds its roots in the Arabic language, meaning night or black. This name carries a rich cultural heritage and has been utilized by various prominent figures throughout history and continues to be popular in modern-day usage. Dating back to ancient times, Leila holds significance in Arabian and Persian folklore, where the night is associated with mystery, beauty, and enchantment.

      In history, the name Leila has appeared in literary works, particularly in Persian poetry. One notable example is the 12th-century Persian poet Nezami's iconic poem Layla and Majnun. This tale of tragic love has immortalized the name Leila and contributed to its prominence. Over the centuries, Leila has retained its allure and continues to be a beloved name in the Middle East and North Africa.

      In modern times, Leila has gained popularity beyond its cultural origins. With the rise of multiculturalism and a greater exposure to diverse names, Leila has become an internationally recognized name. It has found its way into various cultures, including Western societies, where it is appreciated for its exotic and elegant sound. Leila has become a favored choice for parents seeking a name that carries a sense of mystique and beauty. The name's availability across different regions and its continued usage in contemporary society showcase the enduring appeal of Leila.

      Based on our records...

      Smith

      Smith

      This is the most common surname associated with Leila.
      William

      William

      This is the most common name of those married to a Leila.
      James

      James

      This is the most common name for a child of a Leila.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      calendar.webp
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1891 is when there were the most people born with the first name Leila.

      Explore the origins of another name.