MallowbyNames

Gaila

GAY-luh · Of uncertain origin; possibly a variant of Gaila, itself a feminine form of the Hebrew name Gale, meaning 'father's joy' or 'wave of God'.

Peak popularity
1954
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Gaila since 1922

Babies named Gaila per year in U.S. Social Security records.

10213119602000Most births 1954Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1920s15
1930s8
1940s136
1950s209
1960s146
1970s45
1980s5
1990s0
2000s0
2010s0
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Gaila is a rare feminine name that first appeared in U.S. records in 1922. It reached its peak rank in 1954, but has never been a common name. The name's trajectory has remained stable, with no significant rise or fall in recent decades. While its exact origins are unclear, it is likely a variant of Gaila or Gail, names of Hebrew origin that were popular in English-speaking countries during the 20th century. The name has no recorded top states of use, reflecting its sporadic appearance across the country. Parents considering Gaila today might appreciate its vintage feel and uncommon status.

The name Gaila is a modern English variant of Gaila, which is a feminine form of Gale, a Hebrew name meaning 'father's joy' or 'wave of God' (from Hebrew 'gil' meaning 'joy' or 'gal' meaning 'wave'). It saw modest use in the United States during the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1950s when it reached its peak popularity. The name has remained rare, with stable but low usage in recent years.

Nicknames & variants

Variants: Gayla, Gayle, Gail

Sibling names for Gaila

Names that share Gaila's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Darla, Cora, Leona, Mae, Nola

Brothers: Dale, Roy, Dean, Glen, Lloyd

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

G is for Gaila, our favorite little girl.

G is for Gaila…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Gaila's letter becomes Gaila's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Gaila's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Gaila mean?
The meaning of Gaila is uncertain. It is likely a variant of Gaila, which may derive from the Hebrew name Gale, meaning 'father's joy' or 'wave of God'.
How popular is the name Gaila?
Gaila is a very rare name. It was first recorded in 1922 and peaked in 1954, but it has not appeared in the top 1000 names for any recent year.
Is Gaila a boy or girl name?
Gaila is typically used as a girl's name.