US Popularity Rank: 2641

Origin: Arabic

Meaning: Night; Born at night; Dark-haired beauty; Ecstasy

Leilah is a girl’s name of Arabic origin. Translating to “night,” “born at night,” “dark-haired beauty,” and even “ecstasy,” this name is often given to babies born around or after the midnight hour. Leilah’s mysticism runs deep in Persian and Kurdish languages, with many variations in spelling sprouting from its roots. Leilah’s first origin in culture could be traced back to the Arabic tale Layla and Manjun, written in the 7th century by poet Nizami Ganjavi. It follows the story of star-crossed lovers Layla and Qays whose romance rivals that of Romeo and Juliet. As a name, Leilah retains that romantic energy, and this particular spelling adds some bohemian flair.