Lila
Lila is a girl name of Arabic, Sanskrit origin meaning “Night, divine play”, pronounced LY-luh. It ranked #187 in the United States in 2025, given to 1,670 babies, and peaked at #155 in 2010. Common nicknames: Li, Lil.
How popular is Lila in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Lila mean, and where does it come from?
Lila has dual origins and meanings that give it remarkable depth. In Arabic, Lila (also spelled Leila) means "night" or "dark beauty," connecting it to the same romantic tradition as Layla. In Sanskrit, "lila" means "play," "amusement," or "divine play," referring to the concept in Hindu philosophy that the creation of the universe is a playful act of the divine. This dual heritage gives the name both a sensuous, nocturnal quality and a profound spiritual dimension. Lila has been growing in popularity as a softer, more understated alternative to the similar-sounding Lily and Layla.
How is Lila used around the world?
Lila is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 10+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Lila?
Famous People Named Lila
- Lila Downs — Mexican-American singer and songwriter
- Lila Lee — American silent film actress
- Lila Tretikov — Russian-American technology executive
Similar Names to Lila
If you like Lila, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Lila
Looking for names that pair well with Lila? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Lila mean?
Lila is a girl name of Arabic, Sanskrit origin meaning "Night, divine play." Lila has dual origins and meanings that give it remarkable depth. In Arabic, Lila (also spelled Leila) means "night" or "dark beauty," connecting it to the same romantic tradition as Layla.
How do you pronounce Lila?
Lila is pronounced LY-luh. Common variations include Lilah, Lyla, Leela.
Is Lila a girl name?
Yes, Lila is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Li, Lil.