Oak tree, moonlight, or halo
Ayla has multiple distinct origins. In Hebrew, it is a variant of Elah, meaning 'oak tree.' In Turkish, it refers to the halo of light around the moon. It gained significant popularity in the English-speaking world following the publication of 'The Clan of the Cave Bear.'
About 3,149 girls were named Ayla in 2025.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
Protagonist of the Earth's Children book series · The Clan of the Cave Bear
American actress and dancer
American singer and former NCAA basketball player
Turkish-American professional tennis player
The same feel as Ayla — far less common.
Hidden gems that stand out.
