Leire is a unique and captivating name of Basque origin. It is predominantly used in the Basque Country, which is located in northern Spain and southwestern France.
The meaning of Leire is associated with its geographical significance rather than a specific historical figure or mythological character. The name is derived from the river Leizariz, also known as the Leire River, which flows through the Basque Autonomous Community in Spain. This river is believed to be one of the longest and most significant rivers in the region.
The history of the name Leire can be traced back to the Middle Ages when it was first used as a given name. It gained popularity among the Basque people and has since become an integral part of their cultural heritage. Today, Leire remains a popular choice for parents looking for a distinctive and meaningful name for their daughters.
In terms of its spelling and pronunciation, Leire is typically written with five letters: L-E-I-R-E. The "i" is pronounced as in "machine," while the other vowels have a short sound. The stress usually falls on the second syllable ("LEY-reh").
Overall, Leire is an enchanting name that embodies the spirit and natural beauty of its origins in the Basque Country. Its unique meaning and fascinating history make it an appealing choice for parents seeking a distinctive and significant name for their child.
The name Leire has seen a varied level of popularity over the past decade in the United States. In 2012, there were 5 babies named Leire, which increased to 14 in 2015. However, the number of births dropped to 7 in 2016 before rising again to 15 in 2018. The following years showed a decrease in popularity with 8 births in 2019 and 11 in 2020. Interestingly, the last two years have seen a significant drop in the number of babies named Leire, with only 6 births in 2021 and 5 in both 2022 and 2023.
Over this ten-year period, a total of 76 babies were named Leire in the United States. This demonstrates that while the name has not been particularly common, it has still been chosen for a significant number of newborns across the decade. It will be interesting to see if the trend continues or if there is a resurgence in popularity for the name Leire in the coming years.