While the dictionary definition points to “delicate,” the name carries a heavy weight of history and pop culture resonance. From the Old Testament to the Plain White T’s, this is a name that everyone recognizes. It manages to feel both timeless and incredibly current, fitting in perfectly alongside cousins like Dahlia andilah.
Verdict: Delilah is an exceptional choice for a baby born in 2025. It offers the “grandma chic” vibe that is currently trending while remaining accessible and easy to spell. It is strong, sophisticated, and ready for a fresh narrative.
Delilah Overview
- Meaning: “Delicate” or “weak.”
- Gender: Female.
- Origin: Hebrew/Arabic.
- Pronunciation: “duh-LIE-luh” or “deh-lee-LAW.”
- Popularity: Very Popular.
- Nicknames: Lily, Dee, Del, Della, Lila.
- Variations: Dalila, Dalida, Delila.
- Namesakes: Delilah DiCrescenzo (distance runner), Delilah Rene (radio host), Delilah S. Dawson (author).
What Does Delilah Mean?
On the surface, the name Delilah translates to “delicate,” “weak,” or “languishing.” However, for the modern parent, it is important to look past the negative connotation of “weakness” and view the etymology through a poetic lens. The root implies something dainty, intricate, or soft, much like a flower or a strand of hair.
In many ways, the meaning has evolved with usage. Today, parents choose Delilah not for its definition of frailty, but for its sonic beauty and its association with a woman who held immense power, regardless of how she used it.
Where Does the Name Delilah Come From?
Delilah is primarily a name of Hebrew origin, derived from the root “dalal” (דָּלַל). In the ancient context, this root meant to hang down or be low, which scholars often interpret as “locks of hair” or being “poverished.”
There is also a strong linguistic argument for Arabic origin ties. The Arabic word “dalla” means to act amorously or flirtatiously, while “Dalila” can function as a word for a guide or proof.
The name’s history is inextricably linked to the Book of Judges in the Old Testament. Delilah was the only woman in Samson’s narrative who was named, highlighting her significance. As the story goes, the Philistines bribed her to discover the source of Samson’s supernatural strength. After he revealed it was his hair, she shore his locks while he slept, rendering him weak.
For centuries, this Biblical account made the name taboo in Christian circles (1). However, the Puritans began using it in the 17th century, surprisingly, they often used names of Biblical figures regardless of their moral standing, and it has slowly climbed the social ladder to become a beloved secular favorite today.
How Popular is the Name Delilah?
Delilah has experienced one of the most impressive redemption arcs in naming history. For most of the 20th century, the name was rare, hovering at the bottom of the charts or disappearing entirely. It was viewed as too provocative for a little girl.
However, the trend began to shift in the late 1990s. The release of the Grammy-nominated song “Hey There Delilah” by the Plain White T’s in the mid-2000s acted as a rocket ship for the name’s popularity. It softened the image of the name from a Biblical temptress to a sweet girl in New York City.
According to Social Security Administration data, Delilah broke into the Top 100 for the first time recently and has remained a fierce competitor. It is no longer a “rare gem” but rather a defining name of this generation (2). It is currently a chart-topper, widely used across the United States.
How Do I Pronounce Delilah?
The standard English pronunciation is duh-LIE-luh.
In the original Hebrew, the emphasis shifts slightly, and the vowel sounds change to deh-lee-LAW. However, unless you are speaking Hebrew, the Anglicized version is the expected pronunciation.
Is Delilah a Boy or Girl Name?
Delilah is exclusively used as a female name. There is no significant data suggesting it is used for boys. If you love the sound but want a masculine equivalent, you might consider names like Del, Dylan, or Lyle.
Variations of Delilah
Because the Biblical story traveled globally, the name has morphed into several beautiful international variations:
- Dalila: The standard spelling in French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, and Slavic languages.
- Dalida: A variation found in France and Greece.
- Delila: A simplified English variation (though the “h” ending is preferred by most).
- Dylilah: A modern American spelling variation (rare).
Nicknames for Delilah
One of the best reasons to choose this name is the wealth of nickname options, ranging from vintage to tomboyish.
Common Nicknames:
- Dee: Simple and snappy.
- Della: A vintage standalone name that works perfectly as a short form.
- Lila: Highlights the romantic “i” sound in the center.
- Lily: A floral spin on the name.
Creative & Rare Nicknames:
- Lilah: A distinct spelling that feels separate from the full name.
- Lah-Lah: A playful, sing-song option for toddlers.
- Del: A rugged, cool-girl nickname that feels grounded.
Names Similar to Delilah
If you love the flow of Delilah but want something slightly different (or without the Biblical baggage), consider these options that share the same vintage, romantic vibe.
- Dahlia: Shares the floral connection and the “D” beginning and “L” middle.
- Tallulah: A Native American (Choctaw) or Irish name with the same repeating “L” cadence.
- Layla: Arabic for “night,” sharing the lilting sounds.
- Amaya: A flowing, vowel-heavy name that feels modern.
- Ophelia: Like Delilah, a beautiful name with a tragic literary history that has been reclaimed by modern parents.
- Deborah: Another major female figure from the Book of Judges, though stylistically more mid-century.
- Lorelei: A German name meaning “alluring temptress,” sharing a similar “dangerous beauty” meaning.
- Nadia: Shares the meaning of “delicate” in some interpretations.
Middle Names for Delilah
Because Delilah is a three-syllable, melodious name, it pairs best with middle names that ground it.
Short & Sweet
These one-syllable names prevent the full name from becoming a mouthful.
Classic Elegance
Pairing Delilah with a traditional French or English name enhances its sophistication.
Nature Inspired
Lean into the “garden” vibe of the name with these earthy choices.
- Delilah Fern
- Delilah Hazel
- Delilah Ivy
- Delilah Daisy
- Delilah Willow
Sibling Names for Delilah
If you are building a sibset, you want names that match the vintage, slightly Southern, or Biblical charm of Delilah.
For a Brother
- David: A classic Biblical king that stands strong next to Delilah.
- Elijah: Shares the “L” and “jah” sounds, making them a very cohesive pair.
- Gideon: Another figure from the Book of Judges; stylish and underused.
- Jasper: A vintage stone name that matches the antiquity of Delilah.
- Levi: Soft, Biblical, and very popular in the current era.
- Wyatt: Brings out the Southern Belle vibe of the name.
For a Sister
- Diana: A name with royal and mythological roots.
- Lorelai: Matches the rhythm and “L” heaviness perfectly.
- Penelope: A Greek classic that matches the syllable count and grandeur.
- Rachel: A gentle Biblical pairing.
- Scarlett: Matches the romantic, slightly dramatic flair.
- Stella: Short, punchy, and vintage.
Famous People Named Delilah
- Delilah Rene: Known simply as “Delilah,” she is the most famous American radio personality, known for her dedication program and soothing voice.
- Delilah DiCrescenzo: The American distance runner who was the actual inspiration for the song “Hey There Delilah.”
- Delilah Belle Hamlin: A model, influencer, and the daughter of actors Harry Hamlin and Lisa Rinna.
- Delilah S. Dawson: A New York Times bestselling author of fantasy and science fiction, including “Star Wars” novels.
- Delilah Cotto: An actress known for her roles in “Empire” and the movie “Lean on Me.”
Delilah in Pop Culture
- “Hey There Delilah”: The 2006 chart-topping hit by Plain White T’s is arguably the main reason for the name’s modern revival.
- “Delilah”: A powerful 1968 classic by Tom Jones, though the lyrics depict a darker story of jealousy.
- Samson and Delilah (1949): The Cecil B. DeMille epic film starring Hedy Lamarr, which cemented the image of Delilah as a Hollywood glamor icon.
- Delilah Briarwood: A memorable antagonist in the popular “Critical Role” web series and “The Legend of Vox Machina.”
- Delilah Fielding: A character in the “NCIS” franchise, proving the name works for modern, professional women.
FAQs About the Name Delilah
Is Delilah a Good Name?
While it is famously associated with a Biblical villain, the name has a soft, sweet sound and can still be perfect for a beautiful girl. It has successfully shed its negative history to become a modern favorite.
Does Delilah Mean “Seductive”?
No. While the Biblical character achieves her goals through seduction, the name itself means “delicate” or “weak.” The association with seduction comes from the story, not the etymology.
Is There a Saint Delilah?
There are no Christian saints named Delilah. Given her role as an antagonist to one of God’s judges in the Bible, she is not canonized in church tradition.
Can I Name My Child Delilah?
Of course, you can name your child whatever you choose. If someone were to judge you for naming your child Delilah, it would say much more about their character than about you or your child. Given the name’s recent popularity, you should consider using it.
Why Is the Name Delilah Controversial?
The controversy stems entirely from the Old Testament story where Delilah betrays Samson for money, leading to his capture and blindness. For centuries, this made the name synonymous with treachery, but modern society largely views the name separate from the ancient text.
What Is the Spiritual Meaning of Delilah?
Spiritually, Delilah can represent the testing of faith or the power of subtlety. While often viewed negatively in theology, some interpret the name as a symbol of how even the strongest (Samson) can be humbled by the “delicate” or “weak.”
Is Delilah a Flower Name?
Delilah is not botanically a flower name, but it is often grouped with them because it sounds remarkably similar to “Dahlia” and “Lily.” It shares the same organic, garden-party vibe as names like Rose or Violet.
When Was Delilah Most Popular?
Delilah is currently at its peak popularity right now. While it saw some usage in the Victorian era, it has never been as widely used as it is in the 2020s, firmly sitting in the top tier of US girl names.
What Boy Names Sound Like Delilah?
If you like the sound of Delilah for a boy, you might look for names with “L” and “I” sounds such as Elijah, Del, Lyle, or Silas. These capture the soft phonetic appeal without the female gender assignment.
