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Lesley Unisex

Popularity: #914 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationLEZ-lee / ˈlɛzli

Scottish; English

Meaning

Scottish: meadow; English: from the meadow

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Lesley has its roots in Scotland, derived from the Scottish surname "Leslie," which itself originates from a place name in Aberdeenshire. The etymology of Leslie can be traced back to the Gaelic elements "leas," meaning "garden," and "ail," meaning "rock," thus suggesting a meaning akin to "garden by the rock." The name was first recorded in the 12th century, associated with the Leslie family, who were prominent landowners in the region. Over time, the surname transitioned into a given name, particularly in the 19th century, as surnames began to be adopted as first names in various cultures, including English-speaking countries.

Historically, the Leslie family produced notable figures, including the 1st Earl of Rothes in the 17th century, who played a significant role in Scottish politics. The name gained further recognition through its association with various historical events and figures, including the involvement of the Leslies in the Wars of the Covenant and their support for the Scottish Reformation. The name's prominence was further solidified by its inclusion in literary works and its appearance in various forms of art and culture throughout the centuries.

Culturally, the name Lesley has been associated with qualities such as strength and resilience, reflecting the historical significance of the Leslie family in Scotland. The name has also been linked to various traditions and customs within Scottish heritage. In addition to its use as a feminine given name, Lesley has several diminutive forms, such as Les, which have been used informally. Overall, the name Lesley carries a rich historical and cultural legacy, rooted in its Scottish origins and the notable figures associated with it.

Trend Summary

Lesley has seen fluctuating popularity in the U.S., peaking in the mid-20th century.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Leslie
  • Lesleigh

International Variants

  • Leslie (English)
  • Lesly (Spanish)

Famous people named Lesley

Lesley Manville is an actress best known for Phantom Thread, Another Year, and Secrets & Lies.

Lesley Gore is a singer best known for It's My Party, Judy's Turn to Cry, and You Don't Own Me.

Lesley Nicol is an actress best known for Downton Abbey, The History Boys, and The Good Karma Hospital.

Lesley Sharp is an actress best known for The Full Monty, After Life, and Scott & Bailey.

Lesley Ann Warren is an actress and singer best known for Victor/Victoria, Clue, and 9 to 5.

Fictional characters named Lesley

Lesley is a fictional character from the TV series The Good Place. She is a resident of the afterlife who navigates the complexities of morality and ethics alongside the main characters.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Lesley was first seen in the United States in 1893. Lesley has ranked as high as #476 nationally, which occurred in 1980, and has been most popular in California, Texas, New York, Illinois, and Ohio. In the past 5 years the name Lesley has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Lesley (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 7
58%
GA 5
42%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18935
19105
191310
19145
191510
191612
19175
191811
19197
192015
192114
19226
19239
19247
192514
192615
192714
19285
192913
19308
19319
19325
193317
193423
193528
193618
193736
193839
193936
194032
194156
1942102
194395
1944129
1945129
1946204
1947215
1948212
1949249
1950254
1951297
1952307
1953297
1954354
1955333
1956295
1957397
1958286
1959305
1960244
1961276
1962304
1963350
1964403
1965744
1966752
1967689
1968661
1969714
1970766
1971849
1972641
1973611
1974783
1975714
1976752
1977848
1978842
1979913
1980928
1981869
1982834
1983735
1984607
1985566
1986520
1987472
1988480
1989394
1990440
1991372
1992354
1993314
1994288
1995276
1996591
1997626
1998695
1999682
2000658
2001509
2002471
2003452
2004451
2005382
2006371
2007352
2008254
2009223
2010219
2011175
2012131
2013120
2014113
201596
201676
201752
201862
201951
202051
202139
202251
202329
202436