Leah meaning and etymology

The name "Leah" has Hebrew origins and is derived from the Hebrew name לֵאָה (Le'ah), which is thought to mean "weary" or "tired." In the biblical narrative, Leah was the first wife of Jacob and the mother of six of his sons. The name's etymological roots reflect the weariness or sorrow that Leah experienced in the biblical narrative, making it a name with deep emotional connotations.

Pronounciation

The name "Leah" is pronounced as LEE-ə. There are no significant regional pronunciation variants for this name.

Gender usage

The name "Leah" is mostly associated with females. It is less commonly used for males and is predominantly a feminine name.

Traits

Individuals with the name "Leah" are often associated with traits such as strength, resilience, and compassion. They are perceived as empathetic and nurturing, with a deep understanding of human emotions and a strong sense of determination.

Trends

In the United States, "Leah" has been a consistently popular name. It was ranked in the top 50 names for girls in the early 2000s and has remained in the top 100 since then. In the year 2020, it was ranked as the 36th most popular name for girls in the US.

Popularity

The name "Leah" has maintained a steady level of popularity over the years, consistently ranking in the top 100 names for girls. Its timeless biblical associations and simple yet elegant sound make it likely to remain a popular choice for parents in the future.

Sociolingustic usage

The usage and perception of the name "Leah" are influenced by its biblical and cultural associations. It is often seen as a name with deep emotional resonance, symbolizing endurance and faith, which can influence its usage in different social and cultural contexts.

Geographical distribution

The name "Leah" is prevalent in English-speaking regions, particularly in the United States and the United Kingdom. It has also gained popularity in various other countries with Christian or Jewish communities.

Compatability initials

The name "Leah" harmonizes well with many surnames and middle names due to its simple and melodious sound. It also forms pleasant initials with a wide range of surnames and middle names.

Famous quotes

"Leah, we will not forget you." - Leah Sharibu, Nigerian schoolgirl kidnapped by Boko Haram