What does Lesslie mean and where does it come from?
Lesslie is a variant of the name Leslie, which is of Scottish origin derived from a place name. The name means 'from the gray fortress' or 'meadow by the fortress', reflecting both geographical and natural imagery. While traditionally more common as a male name in Scotland, it has become popular as
Cultural significance
Lesslie has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of meadow or garden of the fort.
Peak popularity
Reached #4516 in 2002 — currently #766 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Lesslie?
Lesslie works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Lesslie Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Lesslie Rose
Floral · soft ending
Lesslie Mae
Sweet · timeless
Lesslie Claire
French influence · crisp
Lesslie Jane
Literary · strong
Lesslie Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Lesslie right now?
Holding steady — currently #766 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #766 | 1,434 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #771 | 1,414 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #776 | 1,384 | ▲ up 9069 · +12482% births |
| 2010 | #9845 | 11 | ▼ down 4388 · -52% births |
| 2005 | #5457 | 23 | ▲ up 523 · +28% births |
| 2000 | #5980 | 18 | ▲ up 3660 · +125% births |
| 1995 | #9640 | 8 | ▼ down 2724 · -33% births |
| 1990 | #6916 | 12 | ▲ up 3969 · +140% births |
| 1985 | #10885 | 5 | ▼ down 2570 · -29% births |
| 1980 | #8315 | 7 | ▲ up 970 · +40% births |
| 1975 | #9285 | 5 | ▼ down 2025 · -17% births |
| 1970 | #7260 | 6 | — |
The story of Lesslie
Lesslie entered American naming records in 1957 and has been in use for over 67 years. With 641 total births recorded, Lesslie remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #7260 in 1970 to #766 in 2023. Lesslie is used for both genders: 78% female and 22% male.
Names that peaked alongside Lesslie in 2002:
Lesslie by decade
Lesslie peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 18 | |
| 1920s | 76 | |
| 1930s | 19 | |
| 1940s | 11 | |
| 1950s | 18 | |
| 1960s | 10 | |
| 1970s | 45 | |
| 1980s | 54 | |
| 1990s | 132 | |
| 2000s ★ | 206 | |
| 2010s | 52 | |
💎Lesslie has only 641 total recorded births since 1957 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Lesslie?
What names sound and feel like Lesslie?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Lesslie also consider these
Common questions about the name Lesslie
What does the name Lesslie mean?
Lesslie means "meadow or garden of the fort" — a name rooted in English 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 Lesslie?
Lesslie is currently ranked #766 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 Lesslie?
Lesslie originates from English tradition. English 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 Lesslie?
Lesslie is a two-syllable name pronounced L EH1 S L AY1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Lesslie more of a girl or boy name?
Lesslie is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.