Meaning, origin, history
Meila is a unique and distinctive female given name of Hebrew origin. It is derived from the Hebrew word "mala" which means "to fill," or "to be full." The name Meila is often associated with the concept of completeness, fulfillment, and abundance.
In Jewish tradition, Meila is also connected to the story of Queen Esther in the Book of Esther. In this story, King Ahasuerus had a wife named Vashti who refused to obey his command. As a result, he sought a new queen, and eventually chose Esther, whose Hebrew name was Hadassah. Esther's cousin Mordecai advised her to keep her Jewish identity secret while living in the king's palace. However, when she learned about a plot to annihilate the Jewish people, she risked her life by approaching King Ahasuerus without being summoned. The king was pleased with her and asked what she desired, at which point Esther revealed her true identity as a Jew and pleaded for mercy on behalf of her people. Ultimately, through her courage and wisdom, Queen Esther saved the Jews from destruction.
The name Meila has been gaining popularity in recent years, particularly among parents seeking unique and meaningful names for their daughters. It is often spelled in various ways, such as Meilah, Malia, or Mala, but its Hebrew origin and meaning remain consistent across these variations. Those named Meila may appreciate the strength and wisdom associated with Queen Esther's story, as well as the positive connotations of completeness and fulfillment implied by their name's origin.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Meila since 1880
Total births
564
Total since 1880
Peak year
2018
53 births
in 2023
32
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+38%
↗
vs previous 5 years