Leatha is a unique and distinctive given name of American origin. It is derived from the Scottish surname "Leath", which is believed to have been an occupational name for a maker of leather. The name Leatha is thought to have been brought to America by early Scottish immigrants, where it became more commonly used as a female given name.
The meaning of Leatha is not explicitly clear, but it is believed to be related to the Old English word "leathere", which means "maker of leather". Therefore, Leatha could be interpreted as a name that signifies craftsmanship and skill in working with leather.
There is no significant historical figure or legend associated with the name Leatha. However, it has been used sparingly throughout American history, with some notable examples including Leatha Thompson, an American singer-songwriter, and Leatha Medlock, an American basketball player.
Today, Leatha remains a relatively uncommon given name, but its unique sound and Scottish heritage make it a appealing choice for parents looking for something different. Overall, the name Leatha is associated with craftsmanship, skill, and Scottish heritage, making it a distinctive and meaningful option for a child's name.
The name Leatha has seen a varied history of usage in the United States over the past century and a half. Between 1880 and 1973, there were a total of 6,023 births registered with the name Leatha.
The peak years for the name Leatha were between 1894 and 1922, with an average of over 100 births per year during this period. The highest number of births recorded in any single year was in 1916, with 138 babies named Leatha.
However, starting from the late 1970s, there has been a significant decrease in the usage of the name Leatha. Between 1974 and 2000, only 142 births were registered with this name. This reflects a broader trend towards more unique and modern baby names in recent decades.
Despite its decline in popularity, the name Leatha has a rich history and remains an important part of American naming traditions. Its varied usage over time offers insight into the evolving tastes and preferences of parents when it comes to choosing a name for their child.