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Leroy Boy

Popularity: #650 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: luh-ROY /ləˈrɔɪ/

Origin: French; English

Meaning: French: 'the king'; English: 'the king'

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Leroy has its roots in the Old French term "le roi," which translates to "the king." This phrase was used in medieval France, where it served as a title of respect and nobility. The term made its way into English during the Norman Conquest of England in the 11th century, when many French words and phrases were adopted into the English language.

The transformation from a phrase denoting royalty to a given name reflects the cultural significance of kingship in medieval society, where names often conveyed status and lineage. Historically, the name Leroy has been associated with various figures of authority and nobility, although specific notable individuals are less documented compared to other names.

The use of Leroy as a personal name became more common in the 19th century, particularly in the United States, where it was embraced by families of French descent and others who sought to evoke a sense of grandeur or heritage. The name's association with royalty and leadership has contributed to its appeal across generations.

Culturally, Leroy embodies themes of strength and dignity, resonating with the ideals of leadership and nobility. It has been featured in various literary works and popular culture, often symbolizing a character with authority or charisma.

The name has also inspired diminutive forms such as Lee, which can be seen as a more casual or affectionate variant. Overall, Leroy's etymological roots and historical significance reflect a deep connection to themes of power and respect, making it a name with enduring cultural resonance.

Famous people named Leroy

Leroy Anderson is a composer best known for Sleigh Ride, The Typewriter, and Blue Tango.
Leroy Sane is a professional footballer best known for playing with Manchester City and the German national team.
Leroy Neiman was an artist best known for his vibrant paintings of sports and leisure activities.
Leroy Jethro Gibbs is a fictional character best known as the lead agent in the television series NCIS.

Fictional characters named Leroy

Leroy Jethro Gibbs is a fictional character from the TV series NCIS. He is the special agent in charge of the NCIS Major Case Response Team, known for his leadership and investigative skills.
Leroy is a fictional character from the animated series The Boondocks. They are a member of the Freeman family and often provide comedic commentary on social issues.

Sibling suggestions

Similar names

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Leroy was first seen in the United States in 1880. Leroy has ranked as high as #121 nationally, which occurred in 1924, and has been most popular in Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Illinois, New York, and Louisiana. In the past 5 years the name Leroy has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Leroy (2024)

State Births Share
PA 23
10%
CA 18
8%
MI 17
7%
TX 16
7%
WI 14
6%
MN 14
6%
OH 12
5%
NY 10
4%
FL 10
4%
IA 10
4%
MO 10
4%
OR 9
4%
NC 8
3%
IL 8
3%
GA 8
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
1880124
1881129
1882152
1883143
1884154
1885162
1886155
1887177
1888192
1889186
1890236
1891190
1892233
1893244
1894239
1895249
1896278
1897291
1898315
1899269
1900419
1901268
1902370
1903340
1904401
1905441
1906420
1907550
1908523
1909568
1910733
1911706
19121,306
19131,582
19142,004
19152,450
19162,699
19172,951
19183,422
19193,422
19203,549
19213,749
19223,671
19233,686
19243,922
19253,884
19263,808
19273,912
19283,871
19293,818
19303,804
19313,648
19323,677
19333,357
19343,774
19353,918
19363,644
19373,555
19383,491
19393,388
19403,311
19413,524
19423,717
19433,740
19443,409
19453,172
19463,471
19473,347
19483,234
19492,938
19502,835
19512,716
19522,645
19532,579
19542,639
19552,415
19562,352
19572,316
19582,074
19592,018
19601,867
19611,829
19621,703
19631,644
19641,585
19651,538
19661,349
19671,277
19681,197
19691,230
19701,169
19711,012
1972916
1973807
1974773
1975799
1976760
1977735
1978707
1979730
1980699
1981616
1982674
1983524
1984530
1985539
1986540
1987499
1988490
1989488
1990504
1991449
1992414
1993361
1994339
1995341
1996308
1997308
1998279
1999252
2000252
2001215
2002218
2003225
2004222
2005187
2006211
2007195
2008231
2009201
2010219
2011187
2012225
2013206
2014191
2015209
2016230
2017227
2018250
2019224
2020242
2021254
2022281
2023270
2024278