What do you think of Eila?

Question

What do you think of the name Eila for a girl? (I just came across it and thought it was very pretty. It seems like a much less popular alternative to names like Ella and Ava.)

Does anyone have a reliable meaning for it? (I think it's a real Finnish name, not just a combination name.)

Yes, it's pronounced EYE-luh.

Answer 1

I believe it would be a Finnish version of Helen. (Like the Spanish Elena.) If that's the case, then it means shining light. There's a famous sculptor named Eila Hiltunen, so it's certainly familiar, if not common.

Stateside, though, I think "Eila" would be mistaken for Ella frequently. Our mouths move faster than our brains. So that gives me pause, even though it is a lovely name.

There's also Ailsa - a Scottish name with multiple possible meanings. It could be confused for Alisa, Alicia and so on, but I think it's less likely.

Answer 2

Eila Name

Answer 3

I actually have heard the name before (and pronounced the same). I believe the family was Swedish.

Behind the Name -- the most accurate site I know of -- doesn't have it, so I can't give you a definite meaning. Likewise, I wouldn't trust any of those listed on various random "baby name" sites, since most of that is generally unfounded conjecture.

Certainly, one could easily assume Eila would have Celtic roots, it being ...

- similar to Anglicized Eileen: taken to mean desired/longed-for child, hazel(nut), sun or pleasant/beautiful/radiant, depending on which etymology you accept
- a possibly phonetic form of Isla: the feminine name in reference to the Scottish island Islay
- obviously similar to Scottish Aila: from the strong place

But I honestly cannot find any reliable information linking Eila to any of these. Certainly, you could simply use Eileen, Eilis or a similar name, with Eila as a pet form, or simply go with similar Isla or Aila instead, if meaning is a concern. All lovely choices, no matter your preference. ;)

Below are a few sites that might help, by the way.

Answer 4

Eila Isle

Answer 5

If its a variation of the name Isla then it means island or isle and is of Scottish origin. The closest names in spelling to that are Eileen or Eilish . Eileen is an Irish form of Helen and means "light". Eilish is an Irish form of Alice or Elizabeth.
I've never seen Eila so just assumed it was adapted from one of these names, but if it is a name in its own right I'd be interested to hear where it is from.

By the way I think it is nice!

Answer 6

It's a very beautiful name. The only thing is though, i'd imagine it would be pretty tough trying to spell out "Eila" out to people because it is an unfamiler name, but never the less beautfiul. So is Leila or Laila but that's alot more common. you've got quite abit info on it at this website. It says Eila is a variant of Eileen and Ila. Variant of Evelyn.

Answer 7

I love Isla, pronounced EYE-luh.

Eila, hmm that is a new name for me. Might grow on my. Kind of like it.

Answer 8

EILA
Gender: Feminine
Usage: English, Irish
Pronounced: Ay-La
Other Forms: Ayla, Aila, Eyla
Meaning: Variant Of Evelyn

1.Although the name Eila creates the urge to be reliable and responsible, we emphasize that it causes an emotional intensity that is hard to control.
2.This name, when combined with the last name, can frustrate happiness, contentment, and success, as well as cause health weaknesses in the nervous system, worry, and mental tension.
3.Your name of Eila makes you very idealistic and generous, with the strong desire to uplift humanity leading you into situations where you can express your desire to serve others.
4.You want to assume responsibilities and to look after people; however, you can become too involved in other people's problems and tend to worry.
5.Your name gives you a natural desire to express along artistic and musical lines.
6.You desire a settled home and family life, and are expressive and attentive to your loved ones

Answer 9

I don't know the meaning, but I do like the name. It's pronounced (i-luh), right? If so, I'd spell it I-L-A because it'd be easier to read, if you use Eila everyone will think it's a weird spelling of Ella. Or you could spell it Isla, that's pretty!! I like Isla a lot. =)

Answer 10

It's OK, it's a name that has to grow on you. Eila (ILA) means Island. If you go with it as a variation of Eileen/Ava, it means like a bird.

If you love the name, go for it. Having an uncommon name won't scar your child. She can simple say her name is like Lila without the L. :)