What does Leda mean and where does it come from?
Leda (Λέσβος) is a name of Greek origin commonly associated with the mythological character Leda, who was said to have been seduced by Zeus in the form of a swan. This event led to the birth of several children, including the famous Helen of Troy. The name gained popularity in Renaissance literature
Cultural significance
Leda has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greece-speaking communities, where it reflects values of the one who is praised.
Peak popularity
Reached #513 in 1904 — currently #7481 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greece-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Leda?
Leda works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Leda Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Leda Rose
Floral · soft ending
Leda Claire
French influence · crisp
Leda Jane
Literary · strong
Leda Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Leda right now?
Falling — down 1920 spots — currently #7481 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #7481 | 15 | ▼ down 1920 · -35% births |
| 2022 | #5561 | 23 | ▲ up 1562 · +44% births |
| 2021 | #7123 | 16 | ▲ up 35 · +7% births |
| 2020 | #7158 | 15 | ▼ down 2183 · -44% births |
| 2015 | #4975 | 27 | ▲ up 6263 · +200% births |
| 2010 | #11238 | 9 | ▼ down 1789 · -18% births |
| 2005 | #9449 | 11 | ▲ up 428 · +22% births |
| 2000 | #9877 | 9 | ▼ down 325 · +13% births |
| 1995 | #9552 | 8 | ▼ down 4262 · -53% births |
| 1990 | #5290 | 17 | ▼ down 1769 · -29% births |
| 1985 | #3521 | 24 | ▲ up 3902 · +200% births |
| 1980 | #7423 | 8 | ▼ down 2565 · -33% births |
| 1975 | #4858 | 12 | ▼ down 2335 · -59% births |
| 1970 | #2523 | 29 | ▼ down 457 · -9% births |
| 1965 | #2066 | 32 | — |
The story of Leda
Leda has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 3,367 total births recorded, Leda remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #611 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #7481 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Leda in 1904:
Leda by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 85 | |
| 1890s | 190 | |
| 1900s | 214 | |
| 1910s | 363 | |
| 1920s ★ | 455 | |
| 1930s | 334 | |
| 1940s | 334 | |
| 1950s | 389 | |
| 1960s | 317 | |
| 1970s | 166 | |
| 1980s | 142 | |
| 1990s | 101 | |
| 2000s | 107 | |
| 2010s | 155 | |
| 2020s | 15 | |
💎With 3,367 total births, Leda is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Leda?
What names sound and feel like Leda?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Leda also consider these
How is Leda written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Leda
What does the name Leda mean?
Leda means "the one who is praised" — a name rooted in Greece 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 Leda?
Leda is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl 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 Leda?
Leda originates from Greece tradition. Greece names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Leda a common or rare name?
Leda is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What personality traits are associated with the name Leda?
Studies on name perception suggest that Leda is often associated with balance and approachability. Of course, personality is shaped by experience, not a name — but the perception can influence first impressions throughout life.