Rising since 1990, #3,757 for boys today.
Popularity of Leib since 1958
Babies named Leib per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1950s | 12 |
| 1960s | 11 |
| 1970s | 6 |
| 1980s | 25 |
| 1990s | 31 |
| 2000s | 112 |
| 2010s | 118 |
| 2020s | 133 |
Meaning & origin
Leib is a Yiddish name meaning "beloved," rooted in the German word "lieb." It is a traditional Ashkenazi Jewish name, often used as an affectionate diminutive. In the United States, Leib first appeared in Social Security records in 1958 and has seen a steady rise in usage since the 1990s. As of 2025, it ranks 3,757th, with a one-in-58,899 frequency. Its peak year so far is 2025, indicating growing interest. The name is most common in New York, reflecting its strong ties to Jewish communities. While not widely used outside of these communities, Leib carries a warm, endearing quality that appeals to families seeking a name with deep cultural roots.
Leib is a Yiddish name derived from the German word "lieb," meaning "dear" or "beloved." It is a traditional Ashkenazi Jewish name, often used as a diminutive or affectionate form. In some contexts, it may also be associated with the Hebrew name Yehuda (Judah), as it shares the meaning of "beloved."
Where Leib is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Variants: Laib, Layb
Sibling names for Leib
Names that share Leib's style, for a brother or sister.
