Gayla

♀ Girl

Pronounced GAY-luh /ˈɡeɪ.lə/Medium

Meaning: Most likely an elaboration of Gay or Gayle, from Gail, a short form of Abigail (Hebrew, 'my father's joy'); the word 'gala' may have reinforced its festive sound. The exact route is a little uncertain.Low

In 30 seconds: Gayla likely elaborates Gayle, from Abigail, 'my father's joy'; its festive sound echoes 'gala' (said 'GAY-luh').

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Origin LowHebrew, English

MeaningMost likely an elaboration of Gay or Gayle, from Gail, a short form of Abigail (Hebrew, 'my father's joy'); the word 'gala' may have reinforced its festive sound. The exact route is a little uncertain.

U.S. rank (2014)#15242 ↗ Rising

2014 U.S. births6 girls (0.00% of U.S. girls)

Peak year1954

Total births (all-time)≈ 10,838

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.

History & Origin

Gayla most likely elaborates Gay or Gayle, from Gail, a short form of Abigail (Hebrew, 'my father's joy'); its cheerful ring may also nod to the word 'gala,' though the exact route is uncertain. It caught on in mid-century America, cresting around 1954 before fading, now a vintage variant.

Given to several hundred girls a year at its height, Gayla now reads as a retro 1950s name.

Did you know? Gayla peaked around 1954 and faded within a generation, a bright elaboration of the mid-century favorite Gayle.

Overall data confidence 55%

References — Gayla — Elaboration of Gayle/Gail; root Abigail; route uncertain

Variations

GailaGayleGaela

Nicknames

GayGigi

Famous Bearers

Famous bearers coming soon.

If you like Gayla…

Gayle— the base name Gayla elaborates

Gail— a nearer source form

Abigail— the ultimate root name

Darla— a same-era vintage pick

Explore names like Gayla

By themevintage variant hebrew-root 1950s

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Frequently Asked

What does the name Gayla mean?

Gayla likely elaborates Gayle, from Abigail, meaning 'my father's joy'; its festive sound echoes 'gala.'

How do you pronounce Gayla?

It's said GAY-luh /ˈɡeɪ.lə/ — two syllables, stress on the first.

Is Gayla a boy or girl name?

Gayla is used as a girl's name.

Is Gayla making a comeback?

Not notably — it's a nineteen-fifties favorite that has been uncommon since, a vintage elaboration of Gayle.