MallowbyNames

Twyla

TWYE-luh · Either a variant of Twila or a feminine form of Twill, both of uncertain origin.

2025 rank (girls)
#2,957
Babies named in 2025
56
Peak popularity
1964
2025 frequency
1 in 28,701 girls
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady, #2,957 for girls today.

Popularity of Twyla since 1905

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

65129194192019602000Most births 1964Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1900s33
1910s212
1920s521
1930s656
1940s693
1950s1,244
1960s1,333
1970s906
1980s532
1990s249
2000s235
2010s276
2020s302

Meaning & origin

Twyla is a name of uncertain modern origin, first recorded in the United States in 1905. It saw its highest usage in the 1960s, peaking in 1964, and has remained stable in recent years. In 2025, about 1 in 28,701 girls were named Twyla, reflecting its niche but enduring appeal. The name is most common in Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina. Twyla's melodic sound and vintage feel make it a distinctive choice for parents seeking something uncommon yet familiar.

Twyla likely emerged as a modern coinage in the early 20th century, possibly derived from the word 'twilight' or as a variant of Twila. It gained modest popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century.

Where Twyla 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.

2020s
Fewermore per 100k girlstoo few births

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Twy

Variants: Twila, Twyla

Sibling names for Twyla

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

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

T is for Twyla, our favorite little girl.

T is for Twyla…”

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

Make Twyla's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does the name Twyla mean?
The meaning of Twyla is uncertain. It may be a variant of Twila or a feminine form of Twill, possibly inspired by the word 'twilight.'
How popular is the name Twyla?
Twyla was ranked 2,957 in 2025, with about 1 in every 28,701 newborn girls given the name. Its peak popularity was in 1964.
Is Twyla a boy or girl name?
Twyla is almost exclusively used as a girl's name.