Complete Etymology, Meaning & Popularity Analysis
Summary
Delilah is a name of Hebrew origin that means 'delicate' or 'weak'. It has evolved through various forms, primarily remaining consistent in its modern pronunciation and spelling. The name carries significant biblical relevance, being associated with the story of Samson. Delilah has become popular in contemporary culture, often viewed as embodying both femininity and strength.
Etymology & Cultural Background
Pronunciation
/dɪˈlaɪlə/
Origin
Hebrew
Etymology
Delilah derives from the Hebrew name דְּלִילָה, meaning 'delicate' or 'weak'. In the biblical context, she is known as the lover of Samson, who betrayed him.
Meaning
delicate, weak
Language Evolution
Delilah (Hebrew), Delila (Latinized form), Delilah (English)
Biblical Background
Delilah is a prominent figure in the Bible, specifically in the Book of Judges, where she is known for her role in the downfall of Samson.
Historical Usage
The name gained popularity during the 19th century, particularly in English-speaking countries, due in part to its biblical associations.
Variants & Derivatives
Deli, Lila, Lilah
Modern Popularity & Image
Today, Delilah is often associated with femininity and strength, partially due to its biblical roots and cultural references in literature and music.
Famous People
Delilah Belle Hamlin, Delilah S. Dawson, Delilah (radio personality)
📊 Trend Analysis
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
Explore More Name Visualizations
Key Insights
Popularity Trend
Highly Popular name with 4,240 peak births in 2024
Geographic Spread
Popular across 51 US states, with strongest presence in Nevada
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 7 different American generations with varying popularity
🔊 Alternative Spellings & Similar Sounds (3 Variations)
Explore names that share identical pronunciation with different spellings. These variations offer alternative options for parents seeking unique yet familiar-sounding choices. This curated collection includes 3 carefully selected variations that maintain the same phonetic sound while providing distinct spelling options.
Why consider alternative spellings? Different spellings can offer unique cultural significance or personal preference while maintaining the familiar sound. This collection covers various spelling patterns, helping you find variations that match your preferences.
Historical Birth Statistics
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History
Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Total Names |
|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) | Girl | 889th of 9107 | 1,168 |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) | Girl | 941st of 9204 | 1,098 |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Girl | 887th of 12526 | 2,430 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Girl | 1028th of 19264 | 1,933 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Girl | 1015th of 27321 | 2,736 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Girl | 358th of 35406 | 14,036 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Girl | 85th of 30306 | 38,738 |
Regional Popularity by Generation - Male Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
Regional Popularity by Generation - Female Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
59.32% 840th/1416 |
84.63% 1167th/1379 |
42.48% 1005th/2366 |
- |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
57.31% 886th/1546 |
95.76% 1490th/1556 |
45.22% 1064th/2353 |
75.18% 1163rd/1547 |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
40.50% 902nd/2227 |
49.67% 1207th/2430 |
24.75% 706th/2853 |
35.39% 982nd/2775 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
35.31% 1037th/2937 |
31.04% 1081st/3483 |
31.89% 1122nd/3518 |
20.94% 847th/4044 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
31.45% 1159th/3685 |
18.91% 846th/4475 |
21.20% 1101st/5194 |
14.28% 902nd/6317 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
9.43% 432nd/4582 |
8.93% 461st/5164 |
5.99% 438th/7313 |
3.18% 237th/7463 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
2.16% 86th/3984 |
3.10% 139th/4487 |
1.33% 91st/6822 |
0.84% 53rd/6276 |
State-by-State Popularity
This map shows relative popularity across states, calculated by dividing the number of births with this name in each state by the total births in that state. This methodology provides a standardized measure of popularity regardless of state population size.
Comprehensive Regional & Generational Popularity Trends in the United States
This name shows strongest popularity in Nevada across all generations. It ranks highest as a Girl name among the Generation Alpha generation in the West region. Recent 3-year trends show this Girl name is gaining popularity, while the 25-year trend indicates it has been consistently rising. From 2020-2022, usage has been too falling for female in MidWest, too falling for female in Northeast, too falling for female in South, too falling for female in West. The long-term 25-year analysis reveals it has been too falling for female in MidWest, too falling for female in Northeast, too falling for female in South, too falling for female in West. Across generations, popularity patterns vary significantly: Among the G.I. Generation (1901-1927), it ranked 889th out of 9107 names. Among the Silent Generation (1928-1945), it ranked 941st out of 9204 names. Among the Baby Boomers (1946-1964), it ranked 887th out of 12526 names. Among the Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980), it ranked 1028th out of 19264 names. Among the Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996), it ranked 1015th out of 27321 names. Among the Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012), it ranked 358th out of 35406 names. Among the Generation Alpha (2013-2024), it ranked 85th out of 30306 names. Explore how this name has evolved through American history with comprehensive regional and generational analysis.