What does Leighton mean and where does it come from?
Leighton is of Old English origin and originally a surname before being used as a first name. The name combines elements that mean 'meadow' and 'town'. It has been used in various forms across England and Scotland, with several places named Leighton. As a first name, it has gained popularity in the
Cultural significance
Leighton has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in United Kingdom-speaking communities, where it reflects values of meadow town.
Peak popularity
Reached #400 in 2020 — currently #357 in the US.
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Related Reading
United Kingdom-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Leighton?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Leighton?
Leighton works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Leighton Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Leighton Rose
Floral · soft ending
Leighton Mae
Sweet · timeless
Leighton Claire
French influence · crisp
Leighton Jane
Literary · strong
Leighton Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Leighton right now?
Rising — up 19 spots — currently #357 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #357 | 853 | ▲ up 19 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #376 | 842 | ▲ up 3 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #379 | 824 | ▲ up 21 · +6% births |
| 2020 | #400 | 774 | ▲ up 71 · +14% births |
| 2015 | #471 | 679 | ▲ up 177 · +51% births |
| 2010 | #648 | 451 | ▲ up 3171 · +1087% births |
| 2005 | #3819 | 38 | ▼ down 283 · +3% births |
| 2000 | #3536 | 37 | ▲ up 583 · +48% births |
| 1995 | #4119 | 25 | ▲ up 5174 · +213% births |
| 1990 | #9293 | 8 | ▼ down 891 · +14% births |
| 1985 | #8402 | 7 | — |
The story of Leighton
Leighton entered American naming records in 1956 and has been in use for over 68 years. A total of 16,356 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #8402 in 1985 to #357 in 2023. Leighton is used for both genders: 50% female and 50% male.
Names that peaked alongside Leighton in 2020:
Leighton by decade
Leighton peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 21 | |
| 1900s | 31 | |
| 1910s | 247 | |
| 1920s | 440 | |
| 1930s | 349 | |
| 1940s | 423 | |
| 1950s | 389 | |
| 1960s | 308 | |
| 1970s | 389 | |
| 1980s | 606 | |
| 1990s | 1,185 | |
| 2000s | 2,237 | |
| 2010s ★ | 8,631 | |
| 2020s | 1,100 | |
What are good nicknames for Leighton?
What names sound and feel like Leighton?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Leighton also consider these
How is Leighton written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Leighton
What does the name Leighton mean?
Leighton means "meadow town" — a name rooted in United Kingdom 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 Leighton?
Leighton is currently ranked #357 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Leighton have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Leighton?
Leighton originates from United Kingdom tradition. United Kingdom 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 Leighton?
Leighton is a two-syllable name pronounced L EY1 T AH0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Leighton trending right now?
Leighton is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.