MallowbyNames

Lesia

LEH-syah · Possibly derived from the Ukrainian word for forest, but likely a diminutive of Olexandra or other Slavic names.

Peak popularity
1965
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Lesia since 1948

Babies named Lesia per year in U.S. Social Security records.

931872801960198020002020Most births 1965Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1940s6
1950s496
1960s2,094
1970s431
1980s96
1990s45
2000s7
2010s5
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Lesia is a Ukrainian feminine name that first appeared in U.S. records in 1948, though it has never ranked among the top 1000 names. Its peak year of use in the United States was 1965, when it saw modest but notable usage. The name has maintained a stable presence since then, never experiencing a dramatic surge or decline. While Lesia is primarily associated with Ukraine and its diaspora, it has occasionally been chosen by American parents seeking a distinctive Slavic name. The name is most closely linked to the celebrated poet Lesia Ukrainka, whose literary influence has helped sustain its cultural resonance. Despite its low frequency, Lesia remains a recognizable and enduring choice within Ukrainian communities.

Lesia is primarily a Ukrainian diminutive of Olexandra (the Ukrainian form of Alexandra) or other names beginning with Les-. It may also be associated with the Ukrainian word 'lis' (forest), though this connection is debated. The name gained international recognition through the Ukrainian poet Lesia Ukrainka (born Larysa Kosach-Kvitka). It has been used consistently in Ukraine and among diaspora communities since the late 19th century.

Lesia” around the world

Where Lesia lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.

  • France

    10

    babies in 2024

Sources: INSEE (France).

Sibling names for Lesia

Names that share Lesia's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

L is for Lesia, our favorite little girl.

L is for Lesia…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Lesia's letter becomes Lesia's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Lesia's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Lesia mean?
Lesia is likely a Ukrainian diminutive of Olexandra, which means 'defender of mankind.' It may also be connected to the Ukrainian word for forest, though this is uncertain.
How popular is the name Lesia?
Lesia has never ranked in the U.S. top 1000. Its peak usage in U.S. records was in 1965, and its popularity has since remained stable at very low levels.
Is Lesia a girl's name?
Yes, Lesia is almost exclusively used for girls.