Lei

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Lei

Gender Girl
Origin Chinese
Letters 3
Syllables 1
Pronunciation lay

Lei, which has 3 letters and 1 syllable, is a female name of Chinese origin.

Meaning of Lei

Flower bud

Lei is a Hawaiian name meaning "garland or wreath of flowers". It is also used as a unisex name in other cultures and can also be used as a prefix or suffix in many personal names.

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Meaning Flower bud
Origin Chinese
Gender Girl
Rarity (US) Rare (Not in top 1000)

Background & History of The Name Lei

Lei is a fascinating and culturally rich name with various origins and meanings. One of the most common instances of the name Lei comes from its Chinese roots. In Mandarin Chinese, Lei (雷) means "thunder" or "thunderbolt." The character can also represent power, strength, and authority. In addition to China, the name Lei is also popular in other parts of Asia, including Malaysia, where it means "flower bud" in the Malay language. This alternate meaning adds a softer and more delicate connotation to the name.

Besides its Asian associations, Lei carries significance across other cultures as well. In Hawaiian, Lei refers to a garland or wreath typically made with flowers or shells. Lei holds great cultural importance in Hawaiian traditions, representing love, respect, and aloha spirit. These beautiful adornments are often given as a gesture of celebration, greeting, or farewell, and they play an essential role in various ceremonies and events in Hawaii.

Beyond its linguistic and cultural meanings, Lei as a name holds personal significance for many individuals. As a given name, it can be written and pronounced in various ways depending on the cultural context. These variations include Lei, Lay, Leianna, Leilani, and many others. People with the name Lei often embody the qualities associated with its meanings, such as power and strength, or beauty and delicacy, depending on the cultural interpretation. The name Lei has become increasingly popular worldwide, reflecting the growing appreciation for diverse and meaningful names.

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