Delailah

#12616 US Recent (Girl Names) #21491 US All-Time

Meaning & Etymology

Delailah is a variant spelling of Delilah, derived from the Hebrew name דְּלִילָה (Delilah), which carries the primary meaning 'delicate' or 'weak,' drawn from the Hebrew root d-l-l meaning to hang loosely or be languid. This semantic field evokes fragility or tenderness, as in something delicate like a vine or a faint thread. Alternative interpretations link it to 'languishing' or 'pining,' reflecting a sense of longing or delicacy in emotional states. The name's adoption into English-speaking contexts preserves this Hebrew essence, though modern usage sometimes emphasizes its exotic allure over literal fragility. Etymological development shows consistency across Semitic linguistic traditions, with no major competing origins beyond phonetic adaptations.

Linguistic Origin

The name originates in Hebrew, as documented in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the Book of Judges. From ancient Israelite Hebrew, it transmitted through Jewish diaspora communities into Aramaic and later Yiddish-influenced forms in Europe. Christian scriptural traditions in Latin (Delila) and Greek (Δηλίλα) versions spread it across Mediterranean and European languages during late antiquity. In English, it entered via the King James Bible in the 17th century, evolving into variant spellings like Delailah through phonetic Anglicization and creative naming trends. This pathway reflects broader Semitic-to-Indo-European transmission patterns seen in other biblical names, with regional adaptations in Arabic (Dalila) and Persian contexts.

Cultural Background

In Judaism and Christianity, Delilah symbolizes temptation and betrayal due to her role in Samson's story, often cited in sermons on moral weakness and divine retribution. Islamic tradition references her indirectly through Quranic allusions to Samson's narrative, viewing her as a cautionary figure against deceit. Culturally, the name evokes both allure and warning, influencing its selective use in religious communities wary of negative associations, while others embrace its biblical depth. This duality persists in naming practices, balancing scriptural heritage with narrative caution.

Pronunciation

Commonly pronounced deh-LYE-lah or deh-LAHY-lah, with emphasis on the second syllable. Variants include deh-LEE-lah in some American English dialects and deh-LY-lah in British usage.

Gender Usage

Predominantly feminine, with historical and contemporary usage aligned to female bearers.

Nicknames & Variants

Nicknames

Variants

Origins & History

Mythology & Literature

In biblical literature, Delilah features prominently in the Book of Judges as the woman who betrays Samson by discovering the secret of his strength, leading to his capture by the Philistines. This narrative portrays her as a figure of seduction and treachery, influencing her cultural archetype in Western storytelling as a femme fatale. The story has inspired artistic depictions in paintings, operas like Camille Saint-Saëns' Samson et Dalila, and modern literature, embedding the name in motifs of love, betrayal, and downfall. Cultural retellings often explore her agency and motivations, adding layers beyond the biblical text.

Historical Significance

The primary historical bearer is the biblical Delilah from the Book of Judges, a Philistine woman whose actions contributed to Samson's defeat, marking a pivotal moment in Israelite-Philistine conflicts around the 12th century BCE. This figure's legacy endures in religious texts and commentaries across Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions, shaping interpretations of loyalty and vulnerability. No widely attested non-biblical historical figures bear the exact name Delailah, though variant forms appear in medieval records sporadically.

Additional Information

Popularity & Demographics

Delailah remains a niche choice, primarily in English-speaking regions with biblical naming traditions. It garners visibility among families favoring elaborate, scripture-inspired names for girls, though less common than the standard Delilah spelling.

Trend Analysis

Delailah shows niche stability, buoyed by interest in unique biblical variants amid broader trends toward personalized spellings. Usage remains steady rather than surging, with potential for modest growth in creative naming circles.

Geographical Distribution

Concentrated in English-speaking countries like the United States and United Kingdom, with scattered use in areas of Jewish or Christian heritage.

Personality Traits

Often associated with perceptions of grace, mystery, and resilience, drawing from the delicate etymology and dramatic biblical persona. Naming discourse links it to intuitive and charismatic qualities.

Compatibility & Initials

Pairs well with initials like D.L. or pairs harmoniously with names starting in vowels or soft consonants, such as Ava or Liam, for rhythmic flow.

Sociolinguistic Usage

Appears more in informal, expressive naming registers among diaspora communities with biblical ties; less common in formal or institutional contexts due to its variant status.

Explore more from this origin in Hebrew origin names .