Zeila is a unique and intriguing feminine given name of Hebrew origin. It is derived from the Hebrew word "zelulah," which translates to "shade" or "shadow." The name Zeila is often associated with the biblical figure Zipporah, who was the wife of Moses and the daughter of Jethro, a priest of Midian.
In the Bible, Zipporah is first introduced as a young woman tending her father's flock. It is during this time that she meets Moses, who is fleeing from Egypt after killing an Egyptian taskmaster. Zipporah agrees to marry Moses and accompanies him on his journey back to Egypt. Throughout the biblical narrative, Zeila (Zipporah) plays a significant role in supporting Moses and their children.
The name Zeila has also been popular among various cultures throughout history. In ancient times, it was used among Jewish communities, while during the Middle Ages, variations of the name became common among Christians, including Zippora and Zelda.
Today, Zeila is still considered a distinctive and meaningful name, often chosen by parents seeking a unique yet culturally significant name for their daughter. Despite its biblical origins and historical prevalence, Zeila remains relatively uncommon, making it an appealing choice for those looking for a name that is both memorable and profound.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Zeila has seen a relatively steady usage in the United States over the past three decades, with a total of 62 births recorded since 1994.
The popularity of the name seems to fluctuate slightly from year to year. The highest number of babies named Zeila were born in 2020, with 8 occurrences. Conversely, the lowest number of babies named Zeila were born in 1994 and 2021, with only 5 births each.
Over this period, there have been more years with 6 or fewer births than years with higher numbers. This suggests that Zeila is not a common name but rather one that is used infrequently yet consistently over time. Despite its relative rarity, it's clear that parents continue to choose the name Zeila for their children, making it a unique and distinctive choice.