Leah - Discover the Name Meaning, Origin, and Popularity
Meaning of the Name Leah
The name Leah is often associated with several meanings across cultures and languages. In Hebrew, the name is interpreted as weary or delicate. It is also recognized in some cultures to mean wild cow or mistress in Assyrian. Other translations hint at nuances of tenderness or kindness, reflective of the compassionate traits often linked to the name.
/ˈliː/: lee - Emphasize the 'lee' sound with equal stress.
/ə/: uh - A softer sound, ending with a relaxed mouth position.
For English speakers, 'Leah' is pronounced as LEE-uh, with emphasis on the first syllable making it easy to pronounce.
Origin of the Name Leah
The name Leah finds its roots in Hebrew culture, prominently appearing in the Bible. Leah was the first wife of Jacob and mother to six of the twelve tribes of Israel, giving the name a historical and biblical significance. Other interpretations suggest links to the Assyrian language, offering a blend of ancient meanings across the Middle East.
Gender Association of the Name Leah
The name Leah is generally associated with the female gender. While it predominantly appears as a feminine name worldwide, some regions have seen this name used by men as well. In the United States, the gender association is firmly female. Notable individuals bearing the name Leah include actress Leah Remini and singer Leah McFall.
Popularity of the Name Leah
The name Leah has historically been a favored choice for many parents, maintaining a strong presence on baby name charts, particularly in English-speaking countries. Its popularity soared in the United States throughout the 2000s, consistently ranking in the top 50 most popular girls' names. The name remains trendy today, especially in regions like the United Kingdom and Australia.
Global Usage of the Name Leah
The name Leah is embraced in various cultures, with distinct pronunciations and adaptations. In France, it is commonly spelled as 'Léa,' while in Israel, it carries significant historical weight due to its biblical roots. Across Europe and North America, Leah is celebrated for its timeless charm and ease of pronunciation, reflected in its widespread use.
Global Distribution and Gender Ratio of the Name Leah
Country
Usage %
Female %
Male %
US
77.01%
99.72%
0.28%
PH
7.5%
99.74%
0.26%
CA
3.2%
100%
0%
GB
2.93%
99.34%
0.66%
AU
1.65%
100%
0%
The analysis of gender and popularity by country uses data from Gender API.
Characteristic Features of People Named Leah
Compassionate: Often associated with a deep sense of empathy and care for others.
Resilient: Known for their strength and endurance in facing life's challenges.
Intuitive: Possess a natural ability to understand and empathize with others.
Creative: Many Leahs exhibit strong artistic talents and innovative thinking.
Common Career Paths for People Named Leah
Creative Arts: Leahs often excel in roles requiring creativity, such as writing, music, or visual arts.
Healthcare: Many gravitate towards nurturing roles, like nursing or counseling.
Education: Leahs frequently thrive as educators, inspiring future generations.
Management: Strong leadership abilities make them effective managers and team leaders.
Unique and Interesting Characteristics of the Name Leah
Biblical Significance: As Jacob's first wife, the name Leah has deep biblical roots.
Pop Culture: Featured in various films and TV shows, enhancing its cultural presence.
Music Influence: Referenced in lyrics and titles, Leah influences the music world.
Famous People Named Leah
Leah Remini: American actress known for her role in 'The King of Queens.'
Leah McFall: Northern Irish singer and contestant on 'The Voice UK.'
Similar Names
Leila: Leila shares a similar sound and is of Persian origin, meaning night.
Lia: A shorter variation of Leah, Lia is associated with weary in Italian.
Leia: Famous as Princess Leia from Star Wars, it denotes heavenly flower in Hebrew.
Lena: Lena is popular in Scandinavia and means torch or light.
Layla: Layla shares the Persian origin with Leila, meaning night.
Laura: Laura has Latin roots and represents a laurel wreath or victory.
Lila: Lila, often seen as a variant of Leila or Layla, means night or beautiful.
Lydia: An ancient Greek name, Lydia signifies a woman from Lydia, known for wealth.
Libby: A diminutive of Elizabeth, Libby carries the meaning of pledged to God.
Lucy: Lucy, of Latin origin, translates to light or illumination.