The name Cayla has its origins in the Gaelic language, spoken primarily in Ireland and Scotland. It emerged during the Middle Ages, around the 12th to 14th centuries, and is believed to be a feminine form of the name Cailean, which itself is derived from the Old Irish word "caille," meaning "young woman" or "maiden."

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Cayla dates back to the 14th century, when it appeared in the Annals of Ulster, a chronicle of medieval Irish history. However, its use remained relatively rare until the late 20th century, when it gained popularity as a given name.

Throughout history, there have been a few notable individuals who bore the name Cayla. One such person was Cayla Farrely (1892-1976), a British actress and singer who appeared in numerous stage productions and films during the early 20th century. Another was Cayla Harkins (1926-2001), an American painter and sculptor whose works were exhibited in galleries across the United States.

In the realm of literature, the name Cayla was used by the Irish novelist James Joyce in his famous work, "Ulysses." One of the minor characters in the novel was named Cayla Dedalus, although her significance was relatively minor.

Moving into more recent times, Cayla Wilkey (born 1983) is an American basketball player who played professionally in the WNBA for several years, representing teams such as the Los Angeles Sparks and the Washington Mystics.

Lastly, Cayla Lawson (born 1987) is a Canadian singer-songwriter and musician who has released several albums and has gained recognition for her unique blend of folk and pop music.

While the name Cayla has ancient roots in Celtic culture, it has transcended its origins and gained popularity around the world, particularly in English-speaking countries, as a beautiful and distinctive feminine name.