Leslie

The name Leslie is a unisex name of Scottish origin that has its roots in Gaelic. It is derived from the Gaelic name "Leaslaich," meaning "garden of hollies" or "garden by the pool." This name was initially a surname, used to denote someone who lived in or near a garden surrounded by holly trees or near a pool. Over time, Leslie transitioned from a surname to a given name and gained popularity as a first name for boys and girls.

As a gender-neutral name, Leslie has been used for both males and females since the 19th century. In certain regions and periods, it was more commonly used for one gender over the other. Historically, Leslie was predominantly male in Scotland and other English-speaking countries, while it gained popularity as a female name in the United States during the mid-1900s. This shift in usage might be attributed to cultural trends and evolving naming conventions.

Leslie has been embraced by various notable figures throughout history. One well-known Leslie is Leslie Howard, a British actor who starred in several acclaimed films and plays, including "Gone with the Wind" and "Pygmalion." Another notable Leslie is Leslie Mann, an American actress known for her roles in comedy films like "The 40-Year-Old Virgin" and "Knocked Up." These individuals have contributed to raising awareness and recognition of the name.

Though the popularity of Leslie has slightly declined in recent years, it continues to be a well-established name with a rich history. Its versatility as a gender-neutral name and its strong roots make Leslie an enduring choice for parents seeking a name that is both distinctive and timeless.