The name Keila is a beautiful and distinctive choice for a baby girl, carrying a sense of both history and modern appeal. Choosing a name is one of the first significant decisions parents make for their child, and understanding the meaning, origin, and popularity of a name like Keila can be incredibly helpful. Let’s delve into the fascinating details surrounding this name.
(Image of Keila name graphic – from provided URL)
Keila Name Popularity
How popular is the name Keila? Here’s a comprehensive look at its historical and current trends in the United States, based on data from the Social Security Administration (SSA). The SSA tracks name popularity based on birth records, offering valuable insights for prospective parents.
The data reveals an interesting pattern in Keila’s popularity. While the name wasn’t consistently recorded before the 1960s, it has seen a gradual rise in recognition over the decades. The table below presents a snapshot of Keila’s ranking and birth numbers from 1910 to 2023.
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910-1960 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1961 | 1,944 | 8 | 0.0004% |
| 1962-1969 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1970 | 2,293 | 6 | 0.0004% |
| 1971-1973 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1974 | 2,501 | 5 | 0.0004% |
| 1975 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1976 | 1,622 | 22 | 0.0017% |
| 1977 | 1,650 | 24 | 0.0018% |
| 1978 | 1,963 | 14 | 0.001% |
| 1979 | 1,691 | 25 | 0.0018% |
| 1980 | 2,560 | 7 | 0.0005% |
| 1981 | 2,128 | 15 | 0.001% |
| 1982 | 1,708 | 26 | 0.0017% |
| 1983 | 1,609 | 28 | 0.0019% |
| 1984 | 1,526 | 33 | 0.0022% |
| 1985 | 1,535 | 35 | 0.0023% |
| 1986 | 1,654 | 30 | 0.002% |
| 1987 | 1,472 | 43 | 0.0028% |
| 1988 | 1,164 | 80 | 0.0051% |
| 1989 | 1,222 | 80 | 0.005% |
| 1990 | 1,238 | 85 | 0.0051% |
| 1991 | 1,123 | 110 | 0.0067% |
| 1992 | 1,136 | 107 | 0.0067% |
| 1993 | 1,304 | 81 | 0.0052% |
| 1994 | 1,098 | 115 | 0.0075% |
| 1995 | 1,057 | 122 | 0.0081% |
| 1996 | 1,117 | 110 | 0.0073% |
| 1997 | 1,113 | 116 | 0.0078% |
| 1998 | 1,048 | 138 | 0.0092% |
| 1999 | 1,072 | 134 | 0.0089% |
| 2000 | 1,091 | 138 | 0.009% |
| 2001 | 989 | 169 | 0.0112% |
| 2002 | 1,000 | 168 | 0.0112% |
| 2003 | 1,043 | 161 | 0.0106% |
| 2004 | 1,008 | 179 | 0.0117% |
| 2005 | 1,022 | 182 | 0.0119% |
| 2006 | 1,057 | 185 | 0.0118% |
| 2007 | 1,095 | 181 | 0.0115% |
| 2008 | 1,031 | 197 | 0.0127% |
| 2009 | 1,106 | 171 | 0.0114% |
| 2010 | 1,230 | 129 | 0.009% |
| 2011 | 1,214 | 130 | 0.0091% |
| 2012 | 1,274 | 114 | 0.008% |
| 2013 | 1,068 | 162 | 0.0114% |
| 2014 | 1,179 | 133 | 0.0091% |
| 2015 | 1,227 | 123 | 0.0085% |
| 2016 | 1,168 | 133 | 0.0092% |
| 2017 | 1,436 | 80 | 0.0057% |
| 2018 | 1,362 | 85 | 0.0062% |
| 2019 | 1,491 | 69 | 0.0051% |
| 2020 | 1,796 | 60 | 0.0047% |
| 2021 | 2,037 | 41 | 0.0034% |
| 2022 | 2,186 | 40 | 0.003% |
| 2023 | 1,973 | 53 | 0.0041% |
This data, sourced from SSA.gov, suggests that Keila is becoming increasingly recognized, especially in recent years, reflecting a growing appreciation for its unique sound and cultural roots.
The Meaning and Origin of Keila
While the provided data focuses on popularity, exploring the meaning and origin of Keila adds another layer of depth to understanding the name’s appeal. Keila has multiple potential origins, which contribute to its rich character.
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Hebrew Origin: In Hebrew, Keila (קְעִילָה) is the name of an ancient city in Israel, mentioned in the Bible. The name itself translates to "citadel" or "fortress." This association lends Keila a sense of strength, protection, and historical significance. Choosing Keila can be seen as a nod to heritage and resilience.
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Irish Origin: While less common, some sources suggest a possible Irish origin for Keila, sometimes associated with names like Keely or Keela, which can mean "beautiful" or "graceful."
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Variations and related names: The name Keila shares similarities with other names that have distinct meanings. For example, the Hebrew name Keilah also translates to "citadel".
Names Like Keila
If you’re drawn to Keila but want to explore similar options, consider these names that share a similar sound or origin:
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Variants of Keila:
- Keilah: (Hebrew) Citadel.
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Names that sound like Keila:
- Geila: (Hebrew) Joy
- Kaila: (Hebrew) The laurel crown; style
- Keala: (Polynesian) The pathway
- Keela: (Irish) Beautiful, graceful
- Keili: (Gaelic) Slender, pretty
- Keyla: (Irish) Slim and fair
These names offer a range of sounds and cultural connections, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your preferences.
In Conclusion
The name Keila is a compelling choice for parents seeking a name with a unique blend of historical depth, cultural significance, and rising popularity. Its possible Hebrew origin, meaning "citadel," provides a sense of strength and protection, while its potential Irish connections add a touch of beauty and grace. The rising popularity of Keila indicates its increasing appeal in modern society, making it a name that is both timeless and contemporary. Whether you’re drawn to its biblical roots, its melodic sound, or its unique character, Keila is a name that is sure to make a lasting impression.