lail

Lail is a given name that is sometimes used as a variant spelling of Layla, Leila, or Laila. It is also encountered as a surname in some cases. The name generally reflects transliteration choices when rendering Arabic sounds in Latin script.

Etymology and usage: The core element behind these names is the Arabic word layl, meaning “night.” As a result, Layla and its variants are commonly understood to convey the sense of “night.” The spelling Lail tends to appear in English-speaking contexts as a concise form or personal choice, though it is less common than the more familiar Layla/Leila/Laila variants. In many cultures, the name is primarily feminine.

Variants and related names: The set Layla, Leila, and Laila are the most widely used spellings in different languages and communities. They share the same root meaning and are often treated as culturally equivalent, with pronunciation adapted to local languages.

Cultural context: The name Layla and its variants have a broad presence across Arabic-speaking, Persian-speaking, Turkish, and South Asian communities. The tale of Layla and Majnun, a classic love story in Middle Eastern and South Asian literatures, contributed to the name’s enduring popularity in many regions and languages.

Notability: As a transliteration-based given name, Lail does not point to a single widely known historical figure. It is one of several spellings used by individuals and families, reflecting personal or cultural preferences in naming.

See also: Layla, Leila, Laila, transliteration variants of the same root name.