Leah

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Leah

Gender Girl
Origin Hebrew
Letters 4
Syllables 1
Pronunciation LEE-uh

Leah, which has 4 letters and 1 syllable, is a female name of Hebrew origin.

Meaning of Leah

Tired or weary

Leah is a Hebrew name meaning "weary" or "delicate." It can also be interpreted as "wild cow" or "gazelle."

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Meaning Tired or weary
Origin Hebrew
Gender Girl
Popularity (US) #53 in 2024 Steady
Rarity (US) Common (Top 100)
Era Modern (peaked 2010)

Background & History of The Name Leah

The name Leah is of Hebrew origin and has a rich historical background. In Hebrew, Leah means "weary," "delicate," or "tired." The name appears in the Old Testament of the Bible, particularly in the Book of Genesis. Leah was the eldest daughter of Laban and the first wife of Jacob. She is known for her tender eyes, and her marriage to Jacob was initially arranged without his consent, as he had intended to marry Leah's younger sister, Rachel. Leah went on to give birth to six sons: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun, as well as one daughter named Dinah.

In biblical times, the naming of children often carried significant meaning, and Leah's name reflected her father's perception of her. However, despite the negative connotation, Leah's story portrays her as a strong and resilient woman who played a crucial role in the Israelite lineage. Through her descendants, Leah became an ancestor of various prominent tribes of Israel.

Today, the name Leah remains popular and widely used across different cultures and countries. It is often seen as a timeless and classic name for girls. Many parents are drawn to its biblical roots and the strength it signifies. Leah's story continues to inspire individuals to find strength and perseverance amid challenging circumstances.

As a name, Leah has various alternative spellings in different languages, such as Leah, Lia, Léa, and Lea. These variations allow individuals to personalize the name while keeping its essence intact.

In conclusion, the name Leah carries a powerful history rooted in ancient Hebrew traditions. It symbolizes strength and endurance, highlighting the remarkable character of Leah, as well as her significant role in biblical narratives. Whether it be due to its deep meaning or the beauty of its sound, Leah remains a beloved name that holds a rich cultural legacy.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Leah over the years.

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