What does Leah mean and where does it come from?
The name Leah (לֵאָה) has its origins in Hebrew scripture, where it was borne by a Biblical figure, the first wife of Jacob. The meaning 'weary' has been interpreted variably as a reference to her struggles. Leah has remained consistently popular in many cultures, particularly in Christian societies
Cultural significance
Leah has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of weary.
Peak popularity
Reached #24 in 2010 — currently #53 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Leah?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Leah?
Leah works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Leah Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Leah Rose
Floral · soft ending
Leah Claire
French influence · crisp
Leah Jane
Literary · strong
Leah Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Leah right now?
Holding steady — currently #53 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #53 | 3,973 | ▼ down 1 · -5% births |
| 2022 | #52 | 4,193 | ▼ down 6 · -6% births |
| 2021 | #46 | 4,474 | ▼ down 1 |
| 2020 | #45 | 4,482 | ▼ down 9 · -20% births |
| 2015 | #36 | 5,618 | ▼ down 12 · -14% births |
| 2010 | #24 | 6,537 | ▲ up 44 · +42% births |
| 2005 | #68 | 4,596 | ▲ up 29 · +35% births |
| 2000 | #97 | 3,397 | ▲ up 6 · +4% births |
| 1995 | #103 | 3,274 | ▼ down 21 · -17% births |
| 1990 | #82 | 3,924 | ▼ down 4 · +10% births |
| 1985 | #78 | 3,573 | ▲ up 6 · -2% births |
| 1980 | #84 | 3,638 | ▲ up 48 · +72% births |
| 1975 | #132 | 2,120 | ▲ up 60 · +27% births |
| 1970 | #192 | 1,672 | ▲ up 36 · +21% births |
| 1965 | #228 | 1,387 | — |
The story of Leah
Leah has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #24 in 2010. More than 236,171 babies have been named Leah since 1880. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #210 in 1880 to #53 in 2023. Leah is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Leah in 2010:
Leah by decade
Leah peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 809 | |
| 1890s | 1,671 | |
| 1900s | 1,747 | |
| 1910s | 4,253 | |
| 1920s | 4,452 | |
| 1930s | 3,539 | |
| 1940s | 3,495 | |
| 1950s | 5,959 | |
| 1960s | 12,774 | |
| 1970s | 21,227 | |
| 1980s | 36,203 | |
| 1990s | 34,133 | |
| 2000s | 45,478 | |
| 2010s ★ | 55,940 | |
| 2020s | 4,491 | |
What are good nicknames for Leah?
Famous people named Leah
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Leah (historical figure)
Leah bore this name in the Biblical tradition, reflecting its deep roots in Hebrew scripture and culture.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Leah?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Leah also consider these
How is Leah written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Leah
What does the name Leah mean?
Leah means "weary" — a name rooted in Hebrew 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 Leah?
Leah is currently ranked #53 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Leah?
Leah originates from Hebrew tradition. Hebrew 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 Leah?
Leah is a two-syllable name pronounced L IY1 AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Leah more of a girl or boy name?
Leah is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.