Leslie
“Derived from the Scottish Gaelic 'leas-lèigheach' or possibly 'lesser lea,' referring to a small meadow—evoking images of pastoral beauty and natural ease. Originally a Scottish clan name and place name, Leslie became widely adopted as a given name in the 20th century and has successfully transcended gender boundaries, making it equally at home for boys and girls.”
Leslie is a name of Scottish origin. Derived from the Scottish Gaelic 'leas-lèigheach' or possibly 'lesser lea,' referring to a small meadow—evoking images of pastoral beauty and natural ease. Originally a Scottish clan name and place name, Leslie became widely adopted as a given name in the 20th century and has successfully transcended gender boundaries, making it equally at home for boys and girls.
A classic unisex name that peaked in popularity during the 1970s-80s.
The name Leslie has roots in the Scottish language tradition. It derives from elements meaning “Derived from the Scottish Gaelic 'leas-lèigheach' or possibly 'lesser lea,' referring to a small meadow—evoking images of pastoral beauty and natural ease”.
Cultural context: A classic unisex name that peaked in popularity during the 1970s-80s.
As a unisex's name, Leslie carries the character of its Scottish heritage while remaining a distinctive and uncommon choice for parents seeking something unique.
Leslie Odom Jr.
EntertainmentAmericanHamilton's Aaron Burr, Broadway star, Grammy winner
American actor, singer, and Broadway star best known for originating the role of Aaron Burr in 'Hamilton: An American Musical'. He has achieved success in theater, film, and music.
1981 – present
Leslie Jordan
EntertainmentAmericanWill & Grace, social media icon, infectious comedic energy
American actor and comedian known for his role as Beverly Leslie on 'Will & Grace' and for his energetic comedic personality. He became a cultural icon and social media sensation later in his career.
1975 – 2022
Leslie Cheung
EntertainmentHong KongFarewell My Concubine, iconic Asian entertainer, cultural revolution
Hong Kong actor, singer, and cultural icon who became one of Asia's biggest stars in the 1980s and 1990s. Known for his influential roles in films like 'Farewell My Concubine' and groundbreaking impact on Asian cinema.
1956 – 2003
Leslie Uggams
EntertainmentAmericanRoots, Broadway performer, long entertainment career
American actress, singer, and entertainer known for her role as Kizzy in the television miniseries 'Roots' and her long career in theater and television spanning multiple decades.
1943 – present
Leslie Nielsen
EntertainmentCanadianAirplane!, The Naked Gun, deadpan comedy legend
Canadian-American actor and comedian best known for his roles in the 'Airplane!' films and 'The Naked Gun' series. He became an iconic figure in comedy through his deadpan delivery in absurdist humor.
1926 – 2010
What does the name Leslie mean?
Leslie means "Derived from the Scottish Gaelic 'leas-lèigheach' or possibly 'lesser lea,' referring to a small meadow—evoking images of pastoral beauty and natural ease. Originally a Scottish clan name and place name, Leslie became widely adopted as a given name in the 20th century and has successfully transcended gender boundaries, making it equally at home for boys and girls.", and is of Scottish origin.
Is Leslie a boy or girl name?
Leslie is a unisex name, used for both boys and girls.
What is the origin of the name Leslie?
Leslie is of Scottish origin. A classic unisex name that peaked in popularity during the 1970s-80s.