What does Harlee mean and where does it come from?
Harlee is a modern creation of the name Harley, often used for females. Its components derive from Old English, where 'hare' referred to the animal and 'lee' indicated a meadow or clearing. The name has seen rising popularity in the United States, particularly in contemporary naming trends, reflecti
Cultural significance
Harlee has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of hare meadow.
Peak popularity
Reached #622 in 2017 — currently #914 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Harlee?
Harlee works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Harlee Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Harlee Rose
Floral · soft ending
Harlee Mae
Sweet · timeless
Harlee Claire
French influence · crisp
Harlee Jane
Literary · strong
Harlee Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Harlee right now?
Declining — down 41 spots — currently #914 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #914 | 290 | ▼ down 41 · -9% births |
| 2022 | #873 | 318 | ▼ down 93 · -12% births |
| 2021 | #780 | 363 | ▼ down 28 · +1% births |
| 2020 | #752 | 359 | ▲ up 94 · +8% births |
| 2015 | #846 | 331 | ▲ up 297 · +55% births |
| 2010 | #1143 | 213 | ▼ down 43 · -1% births |
| 2005 | #1100 | 216 | ▲ up 155 · +38% births |
| 2000 | #1255 | 156 | ▲ up 237 · +47% births |
| 1995 | #1492 | 106 | ▲ up 4390 · +607% births |
| 1990 | #5882 | 15 | ▼ down 920 · +150% births |
| 1950 | #4962 | 6 | — |
The story of Harlee
Harlee entered American naming records in 1950 and has been in use for over 74 years. With 6,961 total births recorded, Harlee remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4962 in 1950 to #914 in 2023. Harlee is used for both genders: 94% female and 6% male.
Names that peaked alongside Harlee in 2017:
Harlee by decade
Harlee peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 22 | |
| 1920s | 64 | |
| 1930s | 20 | |
| 1940s | 25 | |
| 1950s | 11 | |
| 1960s | 5 | |
| 1980s | 20 | |
| 1990s | 952 | |
| 2000s | 1,963 | |
| 2010s ★ | 3,510 | |
| 2020s | 369 | |
💎With 6,961 total births, Harlee is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Harlee?
What names sound and feel like Harlee?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Harlee also consider these
Common questions about the name Harlee
What does the name Harlee mean?
Harlee means "hare meadow" — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Harlee?
Harlee is currently ranked #914 as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Harlee?
Harlee originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Harlee a common or rare name?
Harlee is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Harlee more of a girl or boy name?
Harlee is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.