"twilight, between day and night"
Origin: English
Language: English
Twyla
Pronunciation: [ tw-EYEL-uh ]
Does Twyla flow with your last name?
An artsy vintage gem with a dancer's grace
American
English
Vintage
Artistic
Whimsical
Unique
Reviewed by the NamingEverything Editorial Team · Updated
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The Story of Twyla
Twyla is an American name of uncertain but likely invented origin, emerging in the early 20th century. It may derive from the English word twilight via a phonetic variant, or from an older textile term related to twill weaving — a fabric technique producing a diagonal pattern. Some linguists connect the twi- element to Old English twi meaning two, referencing the interweaving of threads or the dual nature of dusk. The name became associated with artistic creativity largely through the influence of choreographer Twyla Tharp.
Twyla enjoyed modest popularity in mid-20th century America, peaking in the 1940s and 1950s. It remained in circulation as a rare vintage name before gaining renewed appreciation in recent years among parents seeking distinctive retro options. Its artistic association with Twyla Tharp gives it a creative, bohemian appeal.
The name is most strongly associated with legendary American choreographer Twyla Tharp, whose revolutionary work blending ballet with jazz and pop culture made her one of the most influential figures in 20th-century dance. This single association has given the name a strong creative and artistic identity.
Historical Record
Twyla first appeared in US Social Security records in 1950.
Over 5,018 babies have been named Twyla in the United States since SSA records began.
Today, Twyla is rising quickly in popularity , currently ranked #3,892 for girl names in the US .
Fun Facts
- Legendary choreographer Twyla Tharp collaborated with artists from Mikhail Baryshnikov to Billy Joel
- The twill weaving technique that may have inspired this name creates the diagonal ribbing seen in denim jeans
- Twyla and Twila share the same pronunciation but are considered distinct names in naming databases
Twyla in Other Languages
French
Twyla
German
Twyla
Spanish
Twyla
Japanese
トワイラ
Popularity Over Time
#3,892
Current Rank
Stable
Trend
Rising Fast
Based on SSA data 1880–present
Year-by-year popularity data will be available soon.
Famous People Named Twyla
T
Twyla Snow
Musician
1952
Country music vocalist and fiddle player, member of the family musical group The Segos
T
Twyla Tharp
Artist
1941
Pioneering American choreographer who revolutionized modern dance by blending ballet with jazz and pop, working with Mik...
Pioneering American choreographer who revolutionized modern dance by blending ballet with jazz and pop, working with Mikhail Baryshnikov and creating the Movin Out musical
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Compare Twyla with:
Quick Facts
- Gender
- Girl
- Syllables
- 2
- Popularity Rank
- #3,892
- Total SSA Count
- 38
- Cultural Origins
- American English
- Pronunciation
- Easy
- Formality
- Casual
- Cross-Cultural Ease
- Moderate
Common Nicknames
Twy
Twi
Middle Name Ideas
Suggested pairings based on syllable flow and style
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Timeless choice, American heritage match, extended 2-3 combo
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Timeless choice, smooth 2-2 syllable flow
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Timeless choice, American heritage match, extended 2-3 combo
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Timeless choice, smooth 2-2 syllable flow
-
Timeless choice, smooth 2-1 syllable flow
-
Timeless choice, American heritage match, extended 2-3 combo
-
Timeless choice, smooth 2-2 syllable flow
-
Timeless choice, smooth 2-2 syllable flow
-
Timeless choice, smooth 2-2 syllable flow
-
Timeless choice, English heritage match, extended 2-3 combo
Middle Names
Middle Names for Twyla
7 name pairings with syllable flow tips
Sibling Names
Sibling Match
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Old High German origin
"resolute protector"
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Frequently Asked Questions About Twyla
What does the name Twyla mean?
"twilight, between day and night" (from English). Twyla is an American name of uncertain but likely invented origin, emerging in the early 20th century. It may derive from the English word twilight via a phonetic variant, or from an older textile term related to twill weaving — a fabric technique producing a diagonal pattern. Some linguists connect the twi- element to Old English twi meaning two, referencing the interweaving of threads or the dual nature of dusk. The name became associated with artistic creativity largely through the influence of choreographer Twyla Tharp.
What is the origin of the name Twyla?
Twyla has English and American origins. In English, it means "twilight, between day and night".
Is Twyla a boy or girl name?
Twyla is primarily used as a girl name.
How do you pronounce Twyla?
Twyla is pronounced tw-EYEL-uh.
How popular is the name Twyla?
Twyla is currently ranked #3892 in popularity for girl names in the United States.
What are common nicknames for Twyla?
Common nicknames for Twyla include Twy and Twi.
What are good middle names for Twyla?
Popular middle name pairings include Twyla Rose, Twyla Ann, Twyla Jean, Twyla Mae, Twyla Renee, Twyla Grace, and Twyla Dawn.
What are good sibling names for Twyla?
Names that pair well with Twyla as siblings include Pearl, Ruby, Cora, Vera, Emmett, Silas, Floyd, and Hugh.
How many syllables does Twyla have?
Twyla has 2 syllables, making it easy to say and remember.
Is Twyla a common or rare name?
Twyla is an uncommon name, ranked #3892 in the US. Its rarity gives it a distinctive, memorable quality.
About the Name Twyla
Twyla is a girl name with American and English origins . The name means "twilight, between day and night" in English .
Twyla is currently ranked #3,892 in popularity for girl names in the United States.
The name Twyla has 2 syllables and is pronounced tw-EYEL-uh, making it easy to pronounce and remember.
Common nicknames for Twyla include Twy and Twi. These shorter forms provide casual alternatives while keeping the elegance of the full name.
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Sources
- U.S. Social Security Administration — National Baby Names Data (popularity rankings and historical trends)
- Behind the Name (etymology and meaning research)
- NamingEverything editorial research and analysis