What does Leroy mean and where does it come from?
Although primarily known as a male name, Leroy has been used as a female name in modern contexts. It gained popularity in the early 20th century and has seen various cultural representations, including in animated shows and movies. Notable bearers of this name include Leroy Jenkins, a popular meme c
Cultural significance
Leroy has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of the king..
Peak popularity
Reached #1198 in 1930 — currently #784 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Leroy?
Leroy works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Leroy Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Leroy Rose
Floral · soft ending
Leroy Mae
Sweet · timeless
Leroy Claire
French influence · crisp
Leroy Jane
Literary · strong
Leroy Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Leroy right now?
Holding steady — currently #784 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #784 | 1,416 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #789 | 1,396 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #794 | 1,366 | ▲ up 8535 · +22667% births |
| 1985 | #9329 | 6 | ▼ down 2990 · -40% births |
| 1980 | #6339 | 10 | ▼ down 1475 · -17% births |
| 1975 | #4864 | 12 | ▲ up 1526 · +71% births |
| 1970 | #6390 | 7 | ▼ down 2428 · -36% births |
| 1965 | #3962 | 11 | ▼ down 1052 · -39% births |
| 1960 | #2910 | 18 | ▲ up 69 · +20% births |
| 1955 | #2979 | 15 | ▼ down 1137 · -44% births |
| 1950 | #1842 | 27 | ▲ up 405 · +80% births |
| 1945 | #2247 | 15 | ▼ down 394 · -21% births |
| 1940 | #1853 | 19 | ▲ up 255 · +27% births |
| 1935 | #2108 | 15 | ▼ down 910 · -62% births |
| 1930 | #1198 | 39 | — |
The story of Leroy
Leroy entered American naming records in 1907 and has been in use for over 117 years. More than 200,728 babies have been named Leroy since 1907. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2158 in 1915 to #784 in 2023. Leroy is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Names that peaked alongside Leroy in 1930:
Leroy by decade
Leroy peaked in the 1930s. See all 1930s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 1,574 | |
| 1890s | 2,544 | |
| 1900s | 4,305 | |
| 1910s | 21,388 | |
| 1920s ★ | 38,114 | |
| 1930s | 36,481 | |
| 1940s | 34,039 | |
| 1950s | 24,768 | |
| 1960s | 15,328 | |
| 1970s | 8,469 | |
| 1980s | 5,651 | |
| 1990s | 3,553 | |
| 2000s | 2,132 | |
| 2010s | 2,145 | |
| 2020s | 237 | |
What are good nicknames for Leroy?
What names sound and feel like Leroy?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Leroy also consider these
How is Leroy written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Leroy
What does the name Leroy mean?
Leroy means "The king." — 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 Leroy?
Leroy is currently ranked #784 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 Leroy?
Leroy 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 Leroy?
Leroy is a two-syllable name pronounced L IY1 R OY2. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Leroy more of a girl or boy name?
Leroy is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.