Leilah

Leilah is a feminine given name that is also encountered as a surname in some cases. It is a variant transliteration of the Arabic name Layla (or Laila), which originates from ليلى and is commonly interpreted as meaning “night.” The spelling Leilah reflects English-speaking readers’ attempts to capture the original pronunciation and preserve the distinct identity of the name among other variants.

Variants and related names include Leila, Layla, Laila, and Leila. The choice of spelling often depends on linguistic background, family preference, and regional naming practices rather than strict pronunciation rules. As a result, Leilah shares its root and meaning with the broader Layla/Laila family while remaining a separate spelling variant.

Usage and distribution: Leilah is used in Arabic-speaking countries and among diaspora communities worldwide. In many Western countries, Layla or Laila is more prevalent, with Leilah recognized as a legitimate alternative spelling. The name’s popularity can be influenced by cultural trends, media representations, and personal or familial connections to Arabic language and culture.

Notable people and cultural references: The name Leilah appears in various cultural contexts, often alongside its more common variants Layla/Laila. Because spelling variants overlap across languages and regions, Leilah is commonly grouped with other forms of the same root name in encyclopedic references.

See also: Layla, Leila, Laila, Leila (disambiguation).