Delilah - Name Meaning and Origin
- Origin
- Hebrew
- Meaning
- Delicate or weak
- Pronunciation
- deh-LIE-lah
- Gender
- Female
- Variations
- Dalila, Dalilah, Delyla
- Notable Namesakes
- Delilah (Biblical figure from the Book of Judges)
Etymology & Heritage
The name Delilah traces its roots back to Hebrew דְּלִילָה (D'lilah) which means delicate or weak. Its ancient origins connect it deeply to biblical history, where it appears prominently in the Book of Judges.
The name possesses a soft lyrical quality, flowing effortlessly from one syllable to the next. Its melodious nature and the simplicity with which it can be pronounced in multiple languages increases its universal appeal, allowing it to transcend cultural boundaries while maintaining its distinctive character.
Character & Essence
Delilah emanates an aura of enchanting feminine charm, striking a balance between timeless elegance and a whisper of the exotic. It elicits a sense of intrigue, where fragility meets formidable strength, symbolic of women who wield their gentle nature as a mighty force.
Despite some of its historical implications, the name Delilah also signifies a woman who is strong, independent, and not afraid to use her wits to outmaneuver those who underestimate her. This duality creates a fascinating tension within the name, offering depth and complexity to its character.
Cultural & Contemporary Significance
The name Delilah is most famously associated with the Biblical figure from the Book of Judges, the notorious seductress who cunningly extracted the secret of Samson's strength, leading to his downfall. This historical connection infuses the name with an intoxicating mix of sensuality and mystery.
Musically oriented individuals might associate the name with the 1968 classic Delilah by Tom Jones, or the hit song Hey There Delilah by the Plain White T's. Each cultural reference, whether from literature, music, or religion, interweaves to give the name a rich collection of significance and nuanced depth that goes beyond its biblical origin.
Despite its age-old roots, Delilah retains a fresh contemporary feel, enhancing its allure in the modern naming landscape. In recent times, parents seeking a name possessing both beauty and strength find Delilah an enticing choice, appreciating how it survives and thrives through the ebb and flow of time, bringing with it stories of strength, cunning, and resilience, woven together with the thread of femininity.