A 1930s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Twila since 1890
Babies named Twila per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1960, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Twila's real moment was 1933.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1890s | 97 |
| 1900s | 187 |
| 1910s | 715 |
| 1920s | 1,584 |
| 1930s | 1,698 |
| 1940s | 1,465 |
| 1950s | 2,026 |
| 1960s | 1,949 |
| 1970s | 981 |
| 1980s | 417 |
| 1990s | 208 |
| 2000s | 181 |
| 2010s | 221 |
| 2020s | 193 |
Meaning & origin
Twila is a distinctly American name whose origins remain uncertain, possibly a diminutive of older names like Matilda or a creative spelling influenced by the word 'twilight'. First recorded in the United States in 1890, Twila reached its peak popularity in 1933, during the decade of the 1930s when it was most frequently chosen. In its peak year, it ranked among the top 500 names; today it is much rarer, with a 2025 rank of 3459 and an estimated 1-in-36,529 frequency. The name has been rising again since 1995, showing a modest revival. Historically, Twila has been most common in Indiana and Pennsylvania, reflecting a regional appeal. Its simplicity and soft sound make it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a name with vintage charm and a touch of mystery.
The name Twila first appeared in the United States in the late 19th century. Its origins are uncertain: it may be a variant of Tula, a diminutive of Matilda, or a creative coinage from the English word 'twilight'. It saw peak usage in the 1930s and is considered a distinctly American name with no clear Old World roots.
Where Twila is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Variants: Twyla
Sibling names for Twila
Names that share Twila's style, for a brother or sister.
