What Does the Name Lila Mean?
Lila has two accepted meanings depending on origin: "night" from Arabic and Persian (a variant of Layla), and "divine play" from Sanskrit, referring to the concept of the universe as God's creative play in Hindu thought.
The Origin & History of Lila
As an Arabic and Persian name, Lila shares its root with Layla, the beloved of the classic Arabic love story "Layla and Majnun." Independently, Lila carries deep meaning in Sanskrit and Hindu philosophy. English speakers have also long used Lila as a short form of Delilah.
Cultural Reach
Lila works across multiple cultures and traditions -- Middle Eastern, South Asian, and Western -- which has helped it feel both familiar and distinctive as a modern American choice.
Famous People Named Lila
Notable bearers include Lila Downs, the Grammy-winning Mexican-American singer known for blending Latin American folk traditions with jazz and pop.
Nicknames & Variations
Lila is often used interchangeably with Layla and Leila. Lilah is a common alternate spelling.
Is Lila a Good Name in 2026?
Lila remains a soft, versatile favorite, valued for working as both a standalone name and a nickname for Delilah.