Rising since 1991, #4,352 for girls today.
Popularity of Leina since 1970
Babies named Leina per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 37 |
| 1980s | 56 |
| 1990s | 62 |
| 2000s | 196 |
| 2010s | 260 |
| 2020s | 188 |
Meaning & origin
Leina is a name with multiple possible origins, appearing in Arabic, Estonian, and Scandinavian contexts. In the United States, it has been in use since at least 1970, with a notable rise in popularity beginning in 1991. As of 2025, it ranks 4,352, with about 1 in 50,227 baby girls receiving the name. Its peak year was 2023, and it has been on an upward trajectory. California recorded the most births of girls named Leina, suggesting a possible regional influence. The name's diverse etymological roots contribute to its appeal, offering connections to meanings like 'soft', 'gentle', 'light', or 'little angel'. Leina remains a relatively uncommon choice, which may attract parents seeking a distinctive yet accessible name.
Leina has multiple possible origins. In Arabic, it may derive from layyinah meaning 'soft, gentle'. In Estonian, it is a diminutive of Helena and can mean 'little angel'. In Scandinavian contexts, it is often a variant of Lena or Leena, which are short forms of Helena, ultimately from Greek Helene meaning 'torch' or 'light'. The name has seen some use in the United States since the 1970s, particularly in California.
Where Leina is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Leina” around the world
Where Leina lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
70
babies in 2024
Sources: INSEE (France).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Lei, Lena, Lainey
Sibling names for Leina
Names that share Leina's style, for a brother or sister.
