Find out how popular the first name Layli has been for the last 21 years (from 2003 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Layli by gender

Based on the last 21 years of data, Layli is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Layli.

The history of the first name Layli

The name Layli is of Arabic origin and has been widely used in the Middle East and other regions with significant Muslim populations. It is derived from the Arabic word "layl," which means "night." The name is believed to have originated during the medieval period, around the 7th or 8th century AD.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Layli can be found in the famous Persian love story "Layli and Majnun" by the 12th-century poet Nizami Ganjavi. The story revolves around the tragic love between Qays ibn Al-Mulawwah, known as Majnun, and his beloved Layli. This tale has been widely celebrated in Persian and Arabic literature and has inspired numerous works of art, music, and poetry over the centuries.

In Islamic tradition, Layli is sometimes associated with the concept of divine love and spiritual longing. It is mentioned in various Sufi texts and poetry, where the name is used as a metaphor for the soul's yearning for union with the divine.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Layli. One such person was Layli Khanum (1805-1857), a prominent 19th-century Azerbaijani poet and writer. Another was Layli Javan (1926-2006), an Iranian actress and singer who gained fame in the mid-20th century for her performances in Persian classical music and theater.

In the world of literature, Layli Bashir (1925-2008) was a renowned Palestinian poet and author, known for her works that explored themes of identity, exile, and resistance. Layli Long Soldier (born 1983) is a contemporary Native American poet and writer, whose work has been widely acclaimed for its exploration of indigenous experience and history.

Layli Gözəlova (1905-1970) was a celebrated Azerbaijani opera singer and actress, who made significant contributions to the development of Azerbaijani national opera. Her performances on stage and in films earned her widespread recognition and admiration.

These are just a few examples of individuals who have carried the name Layli throughout history, each leaving their mark in various fields such as literature, art, music, and culture.

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 Layli was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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