The name Leslie is of Scottish origin and has a rich history behind it. It is derived from the Gaelic word "Leos", which means "garden seat" or "garden enclosure". In the Middle Ages, this term was used to describe a small, enclosed garden attached to a house.
The name Leslie gained prominence during the 12th century when the Scottish Clan Leslie, also known as the Leslies of Warthill, became prominent. The clan's ancestral home was located in Fife, Scotland, and they were known for their notable military service and political influence. The Leslie family coat of arms features three acorns, a symbol that represents growth, strength, and resilience.
Over time, the name Leslie evolved from being purely Scottish to becoming more widely used across Britain and eventually around the world. It has been popular among both boys and girls, although its usage has leaned more towards females in recent years.
Today, Leslie is considered a classic yet timeless name that carries with it a sense of history and tradition. While some may associate the name with specific traits or characteristics, its true meaning lies in its Scottish origins and the rich heritage of the Leslie clan. Whether you're named Leslie yourself or simply have an appreciation for names with deep historical roots, there's no denying that this moniker has a unique charm all its own.
The statistics provided show the annual birth occurrences of the name Leslie in the United States from 1969 to 2000. During this period, there was an average of around 7 babies named Leslie each year. The highest number of births recorded in a single year was 9 in 1975 and 1979. On the other hand, the lowest number of births occurred in 1969 with only 6 newborns bearing this name. Over these two decades, a total of 45 babies were named Leslie.