Leann is a unique and captivating female given name of Irish origin. Derived from the Irish surname O'Leannain, which means "descendant of Leannan," Leann translates to "little dear" or "petite darling." This charming moniker has gained popularity in recent years as parents seek distinctive names for their daughters.
The name Leann is believed to have originated from an ancient Irish clan known as the O'Leannains. This clan was prominent in County Kerry, located on the southwestern coast of Ireland. While the exact history of the name Leannan is unclear, it is thought that the name may have been derived from a personal name or nickname given to a beloved member of the clan.
In Irish mythology, the name Leann has been associated with several legendary figures. One such figure is Leannán Sí, a fairy woman who was believed to inspire poetry and creativity in those she encountered. This connection to Irish folklore has helped to further enhance the mystique and allure of the name Leann.
While Leann may not be as well-known or widely used as some other Irish girl names like Saoirse or Aoife, it possesses a unique charm and beauty that sets it apart. With its roots in ancient Irish history and mythology, Leann carries a rich cultural heritage that makes it an attractive choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their daughter.
In terms of pronunciation, Leann is typically pronounced as /lɛn/ or /lean/, with the stress falling on the first syllable. This simple yet elegant pronunciation adds to the name's overall appeal and accessibility.
Overall, Leann is a captivating and unique female given name with Irish roots and a rich cultural heritage. Its meaning of "little dear" or "petite darling" makes it an apt choice for parents looking to bestow their daughter with a name that is both distinctive and endearing.
The name Leann has had an interesting journey in terms of popularity over the years in the United States. In its early years, from 1925 to 1939, it was quite uncommon, with fewer than 10 births recorded each year.
However, things started to change in the late 1940s and early 1950s. The number of babies named Leann began to rise steadily, reaching a peak of 636 births in 1963. This period saw a significant increase in the popularity of the name, with over 600 babies being named Leann annually for about a decade.
The late 1970s and early 1980s marked another significant rise in the number of Leanns born each year, reaching a peak of 522 births in 1979. This popularity was maintained throughout the 1980s and early 1990s, with over 300 babies named Leann every year.
However, from the mid-1990s onwards, there has been a consistent decline in the number of newborn girls being given the name Leann. By the year 2000, fewer than 250 babies were named Leann annually, and this number continued to decrease over the next two decades.
In recent years, the popularity of the name Leann has continued to fall, with only 41 births recorded in 2022 and just 29 in 2023. Despite this decline, it's important to note that these figures are still far higher than the numbers recorded during the first few decades of the name's existence.
In total, over the span of almost a century (from 1925 to 2023), there have been 24,279 babies named Leann in the United States. This shows that while the popularity of this name has fluctuated greatly over time, it remains a lasting choice for parents in America.