Find out how popular the first name Raylah has been for the last 14 years (from 2010 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Raylah by gender

Based on the last 14 years of data, Raylah is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 13 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Raylah.

The history of the first name Raylah

The name Raylah is believed to have its origins in Arabic cultures, with roots tracing back to the Middle East and North Africa regions. It is derived from the Arabic word "rayah," meaning "banner" or "flag," suggesting a connection to concepts of guidance, leadership, and identity.

One of the earliest recorded references to the name Raylah can be found in medieval Islamic literature, where it was occasionally used as a feminine name. However, its usage was relatively rare during those times, and it remained obscure for several centuries.

It wasn't until the 19th century that the name Raylah began to gain some popularity, particularly among Arab communities in the Levant region. During this period, several notable figures bore the name, including Raylah al-Sulh (1844-1910), a prominent Lebanese writer and poet who played a significant role in the literary renaissance of the Arab world.

In the 20th century, the name continued to spread and gain recognition beyond its traditional boundaries. One notable bearer of the name was Raylah Odeh (1912-1995), a Palestinian activist and politician who fought for women's rights and played a pivotal role in the Palestinian nationalist movement.

Another famous Raylah was Raylah Saleh (1935-2022), an Egyptian actress and singer who captivated audiences with her performances in numerous films and television shows throughout the latter half of the 20th century.

Moving into more recent times, Raylah Ali (born 1977) is a renowned American spoken word artist and activist who has used her platform to advocate for social justice and empowerment.

Lastly, Raylah Hamadeh (born 1992) is a Syrian-American artist and writer whose work explores themes of identity, displacement, and cultural heritage, reflecting the diverse experiences of the modern Arab diaspora.

While the name Raylah has remained relatively uncommon in mainstream Western cultures, it has continued to hold significance and meaning within Arabic-speaking communities, carrying associations of guidance, leadership, and a strong sense of cultural identity.

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

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

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