Meaning, origin, history
Leroy is a unique and distinctive given name of French origin. It is derived from the Old French word "le roi," which means "the king." Therefore, Leroy literally translates to "the king."
The name Leroy has a rich history and has been used for centuries in France. In fact, it was first recorded as a surname in the early 13th century in Normandy, France. Over time, Leroy evolved from being primarily a surname to also being used as a given name.
Leroy gained popularity outside of France in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in English-speaking countries like the United States and Canada. Today, it is still considered a somewhat uncommon name, but it is nonetheless appreciated for its unique sound and historical significance.
In terms of famous individuals named Leroy, one notable example is American jazz musician Lester "Prez" Young, who was often referred to by his nickname Leroy. Another is French poet Arthur Rimbaud, whose mother's maiden name was Leroy.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Leroi since 1880
Total births
150
Total since 1880
Peak year
1969
10 births
in 2016
8
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-100%
↘
vs previous 5 years