Leland is a name of English origin, derived from the Old English words "leah" and "land", which together mean "woodland clearing". It is also associated with the Welsh surname Llywelyn, which means "leader".
The name Leland first gained popularity in the United States during the late 19th century, but it has since declined in usage. However, it remains a unique and distinctive name choice for parents looking for something different for their child.
Throughout history, there have been several notable figures with the name Leland. One of the most famous is American poet James Leland, who was a member of the Transcendentalist movement in the mid-19th century. Another notable figure is Leland Stanford, the businessman and politician who founded Stanford University.
Overall, Leland is a classic yet distinctive name with a rich history that offers parents plenty of options for middle names to complement it. It's also associated with nature and leadership, making it an appealing choice for parents looking for a meaningful name for their child.
The name Leland has been popular among parents in the United States over the past century and a half, with varying degrees of popularity from year to year.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, there was an average of about six births per year for boys named Leland. The highest number of births recorded during this time was nine in 1914. After World War II, the popularity of the name seemed to decline, with only five births recorded in some years.
However, starting in the late 20th century, the name began to regain popularity among parents once again. In recent years, there have been an average of about ten births per year for boys named Leland. The most popular year for the name in recent times was 2022, with a total of twenty-one births.
Overall, from 1884 to 2023, there have been a total of five hundred and twenty-five births for boys named Leland in the United States. This shows that while the popularity of the name has fluctuated over time, it remains a beloved choice among parents seeking a unique and timeless name for their sons.