Leigh is a given name of English origin that has been gaining popularity in recent years. It is typically used as a girl's name, but it can also be used for boys. The name Leigh is derived from the Old English word "leah," which means "woodland clearing." This name has a rich history and has been associated with several notable figures throughout history.
One of the most famous historical figures associated with the name Leigh is the 17th-century poet and playwright, John Wilmot, Earl of Rochester. He was known for his witty and controversial poetry and plays, and he was also notorious for his debauched lifestyle. Although his given name was John, he was often referred to as "Lord Leigh" due to his family's ownership of the estate in Leicestershire.
Another notable figure with the name Leigh is the American actress and model, Leigh-Lee Erwin. She was born in 1970 and has appeared in several films and television shows throughout her career. She is perhaps best known for her role as "Sasha" in the television series "My So-Called Life."
In recent years, the name Leigh has been used more frequently as a given name for girls. It has a unique sound that sets it apart from other names with similar spellings, such as Leigha and Leighton. The name Leigh also has a timeless quality to it, making it a suitable choice for parents looking for a classic yet distinctive name for their daughter.
Overall, the name Leigh is associated with history, culture, and creativity. With its English origins and rich historical significance, this name is sure to continue gaining popularity in years to come. Whether you're looking for a unique name for your daughter or simply have an interest in the meaning behind names, Leigh is a name worth considering.
The name Leigh has been given to a total of 5,107 babies born in the United States over the years. While it was quite popular during certain periods, it has seen fluctuations in its popularity over time.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Leigh was given to between five and nine babies per year, with a peak of 18 births in 1912. This trend continued into the 1920s and 1930s, with around 29 to 65 babies named Leigh each year.
However, starting from the 1940s, there was a notable increase in the number of babies named Leigh, reaching a peak of 126 births in 1955. This trend continued into the 1970s, with around 37 to 87 babies named Leigh each year.
Unfortunately, the popularity of the name Leigh started to decline in the late 1970s and early 1980s, with a significant drop after 1990. Since then, fewer than 28 babies have been named Leigh each year on average.
Despite this decline, Leigh remains an uncommon but notable name, with around five to nine babies given the name each year in recent years. It's interesting to note that there were eight births of the name Leigh recorded in both 2016 and 2022, suggesting that it may be experiencing a small resurgence in popularity.
In conclusion, while the name Leigh has seen fluctuations in its popularity over time, it remains a unique and uncommon name with a total of 5,107 babies bearing this name across the United States.