Find out how popular the first name Reila has been for the last 3 years (from 2021 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Reila by gender

Based on the last 3 years of data, Reila 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 Reila.

The history of the first name Reila

The name Reila is a unique and intriguing moniker with origins that are somewhat shrouded in mystery. It is believed to have roots in the ancient Finnish language, where it may have derived from the word "reila," meaning "generous" or "kind." This suggests that the name was initially bestowed upon individuals who embodied these positive traits.

Historically, the name Reila can be traced back to the medieval era in Finland, a period when naming traditions were heavily influenced by the country's rich cultural tapestry and pagan beliefs. It is possible that the name held symbolic significance within certain Finnish communities, potentially associated with fertility rituals or the worship of nature deities.

While there are no definitive records of the name appearing in ancient texts or religious scriptures, several noteworthy individuals have borne the name Reila throughout history. One of the earliest known bearers was Reila Vihelä (1892-1976), a Finnish artist renowned for her intricate woodcarvings and sculptures that captured the essence of traditional Finnish folklore.

Another prominent figure was Reila Salminen (1923-2004), a pioneering Finnish architect who made significant contributions to the modernist movement in her country. Her innovative designs, which seamlessly blended functionality with aesthetics, left an indelible mark on the architectural landscape of Finland.

In the realm of literature, Reila Halonen (1936-2018) stood out as a celebrated Finnish novelist and poet. Her poignant works, which often explored themes of identity, human relationships, and the complexities of modern life, earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious Finlandia Prize.

Across the Atlantic, Reila Ashworth (1901-1988) made a name for herself as a trailblazing American entrepreneur and philanthropist. Born in Pennsylvania, she founded a successful chain of boutiques that catered to women's fashion, and her charitable endeavors supported various educational and cultural initiatives.

Lastly, Reila Järvinen (1959-present) is a renowned Finnish musician and composer whose innovative compositions have pushed the boundaries of contemporary classical music. Her works have been performed by prestigious orchestras and ensembles worldwide, earning her critical acclaim and a loyal following among music aficionados.

While these individuals hail from different eras and walks of life, they all share the distinctive name Reila, a name that has endured through the ages, carrying with it a rich tapestry of cultural heritage and personal achievements.

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

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

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