Leith is a unique and distinctive given name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic word "Leth", which means "calm" or "smooth". The name Leith is most commonly associated with the coastal town in Edinburgh, Scotland, known as Leith, but its origins lie in ancient Scottish language and culture.
The history of the name Leith can be traced back to the Middle Ages in Scotland. It was often used as a personal name, particularly among the Highland clans. However, it is also believed that Leith may have been used as a surname initially, before being adopted as a given name in some cases.
One famous figure associated with the name Leith is Admiral Charles Elphinstone Fleming, 1st Baron Elphinstone of Leith, who served in the Royal Navy and was instrumental in the development of the town of Leith during the late 19th century. His family's coat of arms features a depiction of a leopard rampant, which has become synonymous with the town and its name.
Today, Leith continues to be used as a given name for boys in Scotland and beyond. While it may not be one of the most common names, it remains popular among those seeking a unique and meaningful name for their child. Its association with calmness and smoothness makes it an appealing choice for parents looking for a name that carries positive connotations.
In summary, Leith is a Scottish given name derived from the Gaelic word "Leth", meaning "calm" or "smooth". With its rich history and unique sound, it continues to be a popular choice among parents seeking a distinctive name for their child.
The name Leith has been given to babies born in the United States for over a century, with the first recorded birth occurring in 1916 and the latest in 2023. According to the data provided, there have been a total of 641 births in the US with the name Leith since then.
The popularity of the name has fluctuated over time. The most popular years for the name were 2017, 2018, and 2022, with each year seeing 23, 23, and 15 births respectively. On the other hand, there have been several years where only one baby was named Leith, such as in 1916, 1927, and 1986.
Despite these fluctuations, it is clear that the name Leith has maintained a consistent presence among American parents over the decades. It will be interesting to see how its popularity continues to evolve in the coming years.