Declining since 2010, #5,554 for girls today.
Popularity of Laela since 1972
Babies named Laela per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 11 |
| 1980s | 19 |
| 1990s | 47 |
| 2000s | 670 |
| 2010s | 690 |
| 2020s | 248 |
Meaning & origin
Laela is a modern spelling variant of the classic name Layla, which has Arabic roots meaning 'night.' First recorded in the United States in 1972, Laela saw its highest usage in 2009, when it peaked in rank. Since 2010, its popularity has been falling, but it remains a distinctive choice. The name's appeal lies in its melodic sound and alternative spelling to the more common Layla, offering a fresh yet familiar feel. With a 2025 ranking of 5,554 and an incidence of 1 in 73,058, Laela is a rare gem that stands out without being unfamiliar.
Laela is a spelling variant of Layla, a name of Arabic origin meaning 'night' and referring to the dark beauty of the night sky. The name entered English usage in the 20th century as an alternative to more common spellings like Leila or Laila.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Lae, Lay
Sibling names for Laela
Names that share Laela's style, for a brother or sister.
