Layah

♀ Girl

Layah Pronunciation

Layah is pronounced LAY-ə /ˈleɪ.ə/High

Meaning: Modern spelling of Leah, the Genesis matriarch's name, traditionally glossed 'weary' or linked to a word for 'wild cow'Medium

In 30 seconds: A breath-soft modern spelling that floats between Leah, the Genesis matriarch, and the airy Laya. Two syllables of pure vowel.

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Origin MediumHebrew, American

MeaningModern spelling of Leah, the Genesis matriarch's name, traditionally glossed 'weary' or linked to a word for 'wild cow'

U.S. rank (2024)#3301 ↘ Falling

2024 U.S. births48 girls (0.00% of U.S. girls)

Peak year2016

Total births (all-time)≈ 1,306

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

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

History & Origin

Layah most often represents a respelling of Leah, the Hebrew matriarch whose name is traditionally glossed 'weary', though some scholars link it instead to an old word for 'wild cow' — a meaning of strength in a herding culture. The added -yah gives it the look of names like Aaliyah and the sound of Laya.

The spelling appears in recent U.S. records as part of the broad -ayah wave (Alayah, Amayah, Anayah). It remains rare, offering a fresh face for one of the oldest girls' names in continuous use.

Did you know? Leah — the most likely ancestor of Layah — was the overlooked first wife of Jacob in Genesis, yet through her sons came most of the twelve tribes of Israel.

Overall data confidence 72%

Behind the Name — Leah — root name etymology

Variations

LeahLayaLeiaLaia

Nicknames

Lay

Famous Bearers

Famous bearers coming soon.

If you like Layah…

Leah— the biblical matriarch behind the spelling

Laila— a fellow airy L-vowel favorite

Alayah— shares the modern -ayah ending fashion

Leia— the Star Wars-famous sound-cousin

→ See all names like Layah

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Frequently Asked

How do you pronounce Layah?

Layah is pronounced LAY-ə (/ˈleɪ.ə/). Press play above to hear Layah said aloud.

How do you say Layah?

Layah is said LAY-ə (/ˈleɪ.ə/). Press play above to hear Layah said aloud.

What does the name Layah mean?

Layah is usually a modern spelling of Leah, the Genesis matriarch's name traditionally glossed 'weary', though scholars debate its exact source.

Is Layah a boy or girl name?

Layah is a girl's name.

How popular is Layah?

Layah is a rare, modern spelling in the U.S.