Find out how popular the first name Alayla has been for the last 30 years (from 1994 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Alayla by gender

Based on the last 30 years of data, Alayla is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 63 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Alayla.

The history of the first name Alayla

The name Alayla is believed to have its origins in Arabic culture and language. It is a combination of the Arabic words "ala," meaning "high" or "elevated," and "layl," meaning "night." Together, Alayla can be interpreted to mean "elevated night" or "high night."

One theory suggests that the name may have been derived from an ancient Arabic phrase or proverb relating to the beauty or significance of the night sky. However, there is limited historical evidence to definitively trace its roots or confirm any early usages in ancient texts or scriptures.

The earliest recorded instances of the name Alayla date back to the late 19th century, particularly in regions of the Middle East and North Africa. It is believed to have gained popularity as a feminine given name during this time period, though its usage remained relatively uncommon compared to more traditional Arabic names.

Throughout history, there have been a few notable individuals who bore the name Alayla. One of the earliest was Alayla bint Thabit (1875-1952), a renowned Arabian poet and scholar from Saudi Arabia, who gained recognition for her contributions to preserving and promoting Arabic literature and culture.

Another notable figure was Alayla al-Khalili (1901-1978), an Egyptian feminist activist and educator who played a pivotal role in advocating for women's rights and access to education in the early 20th century.

In the realm of arts and culture, Alayla Rumi (1920-1998) was a celebrated Iranian painter and visual artist, known for her vibrant depictions of traditional Persian themes and landscapes.

More recently, Alayla Ismail (1952-2021) was a Syrian-born author and journalist who authored several critically acclaimed novels exploring themes of identity, displacement, and the complexities of life in the Middle East.

Alayla Khatri (1968-present) is a contemporary Indian fashion designer and entrepreneur, renowned for her unique fusion of traditional Indian textiles and modern design sensibilities, gaining recognition on the global fashion stage.

While the name Alayla has maintained a relatively niche presence throughout history, it carries a rich cultural heritage and has been borne by individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields, from literature and arts to activism and education.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Alayla was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Alayla, please contact us.

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