Exploring 26 Words That End in “la” and Their Meanings

Have you ever noticed how many familiar words have a soft, flowing -la ending? Whether you’re grabbing an umbrella on a rainy day, admiring a beautiful mandala, or listening to the sound of a viola, these words are everywhere. Many come from Latin, Italian, and Spanish, making them both musical and elegant in sound.

Some are tied to culture and art, while others are just fun to say. If you love discovering new words and their meanings, you’ll enjoy exploring different categories of words that end in la and how they add charm to everyday language.

A. Three-Letter Words Ending in “la”

Short words with an -la ending are less common, but a few exist, often derived from foreign languages or used in specific contexts:

1. Ala – A Latin and Spanish word meaning “wing” or “part of a structure.”
2. Ela – A name and a term used in phonetics.
3. Ola – A Spanish word meaning “wave” or an informal greeting.

B. Four-Letter Words Ending in “la”

Many four-letter words ending in -la come from romance languages, science, or everyday vocabulary:

1. Bola – Spanish for “ball” or a type of throwing weapon (bolas).
2. Cola – A type of carbonated drink or a botanical term for certain plants.
3. Fila – A Portuguese and Spanish word meaning “line” or “row.”
4. Kola – A tree species known for its caffeine-rich nuts.
5. Sula – A genus of seabirds, also known as boobies.

C. Five-Letter Words Ending in “la”

This category includes words from music, medicine, geography, and culture:

1. Viola – A string instrument slightly larger than a violin.
2. Doula – A trained professional who supports women during childbirth.
3. Scala – An Italian word for “staircase,” also used in computing and music.
4. Koala – A tree-dwelling marsupial native to Australia.
5. Zorla – A word of Turkish origin meaning “by force” or “compulsorily.”

D. Six-Letter and Longer Words Ending in “la”

These words cover a wide range of topics, from objects and nature to food and artistic expressions:

1. Mandala – A circular geometric design used in spiritual and artistic traditions.
2. Umbrella – A tool used for protection against rain or sun.
3. Gondola – A type of long, narrow boat used in Venice.
4. Mozzarella – A popular Italian cheese used in pizza and other dishes.
5. Tortilla – A thin, round flatbread commonly used in Mexican cuisine.
6. Cappella – A style of singing without instrumental accompaniment (a cappella).
7. Manilla – A type of flexible paper or an old currency used in West Africa.
8. Girasola – Derived from the Italian word for “sunflower.”

E. Slang and Informal Words Ending in “la”

Slang and informal words often have playful or casual tones, making the -la ending common in speech:

1. Holla – A casual way to get someone’s attention or say hello.
2. Chilla – A slang variation of “chill” meaning to relax.
3. Fella – Informal for “fellow,” meaning a man or guy.
4. Bella – An Italian word for “beautiful,” often used as a nickname.
5. Thrilla – A playful way to describe something exciting or thrilling.