“one who is beloved” — Associated with the term 'life' in Old English ('līf')
American origin · Boy name
♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls
#11404US 2020
6Births / yr
↑Rising
690All-time births
📅 Since 188000.01% of births at peak
How to pronounce Lafe
LAH·FAY
/ˈlɑ.ˈfeɪ/ · stress on LAH · 2 syllables
“one who is beloved”
Associated with the term 'life' in Old English ('līf') · American origin
What does Lafe mean and where does it come from?
The name Lafe is often considered a variant of the name Laef, which has Old English roots. It can be associated with the term 'life' in Old English ('līf'). It is relatively uncommon but has gained usage in certain regions of the United States. Lafe has been notably used in modern cultural contexts,
Cultural significance
Lafe has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of one who is beloved.
Peak popularity
Reached #467 in 1884 — currently #11404 in the US.
Rising fast — up 262 spots — currently #11404 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2020#11404 · Top 8.4%
1920
1925
1930
1935
1945
1950
1955
1965
1975
1980
1985
1990
2005
2010
2020
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2020
#10518
6
▲ up 262
2010
#10780
6
▲ up 713 · +20% births
2005
#11493
5
▼ down 3351
1990
#8142
5
▼ down 2976 · -29% births
1985
#5166
7
▼ down 212
1980
#4954
7
▼ down 1698 · -36% births
1975
#3256
11
▼ down 628 · +10% births
1965
#2628
10
▼ down 40
1955
#2588
10
▲ up 1123 · +100% births
1950
#3711
5
▼ down 340
1945
#3371
5
▼ down 398 · -29% births
1935
#2973
7
▲ up 649 · +17% births
1930
#3622
6
▼ down 669 · -33% births
1925
#2953
9
▲ up 1359 · +80% births
1920
#4312
5
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Lafe
1905Rank #1020
11
#4948
↘Falling
1905 - 202017 years
The story of Lafe
Lafe has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 690 total births recorded, Lafe remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #666 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #10518 in 2020.
Lafe means "one who is beloved" — 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 Lafe?
Lafe is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Lafe?
Lafe 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.
How do you pronounce the name Lafe?
Lafe is a two-syllable name pronounced L AA1 F EY1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Lafe a common or rare name?
Lafe is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Lafe
For a sister
Lafe & Hazel♡
Lafe & Josie♡
Lafe & Georgia♡
Lafe & Walter♡
For a brother
Lafe & John♡
Lafe & Josie♡
Lafe & Georgia♡
Lafe & Walter♡
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