Dalila

Meaning of Dalila

Dalila is a quietly cosmopolitan choice, tracing a double lineage through the Semitic family of languages: in Arabic دليلة it carries the sense of “guide” or “gentle companion,” while in Hebrew it is a variant of Delilah, traditionally glossed as “delicate.” The spelling softens the biblical femme-fatale aura, giving the name a lighter, more contemporary polish without losing its ancient resonance. Stateside, Dalila has lingered in the 700–800 range for the better part of half a century—conspicuous enough to avoid constant mispronunciation, yet rare enough to keep its bearer from sharing a cubby. The blend of cross-cultural roots, understated popularity, and a meaning that oscillates between tenderness and quiet authority makes Dalila a deft option for parents who prefer a name that feels both time-tested and pleasantly off the beaten path.