Rising since 2017, #7,885 for girls today.
Popularity of Lesli since 1946
Babies named Lesli per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1940s | 50 |
| 1950s | 480 |
| 1960s | 1,190 |
| 1970s | 997 |
| 1980s | 623 |
| 1990s | 640 |
| 2000s | 1,420 |
| 2010s | 305 |
| 2020s | 94 |
Meaning & origin
The name Lesli, a variant spelling of Leslie, has been in use since at least 1946, when it first appeared in U.S. Social Security records. Its peak popularity occurred in 2001, reflecting a broader mid-century trend for names ending in the 'ee' sound. After declining in the late 2000s, Lesli has been on a gentle rise since 2017, suggesting renewed interest. Currently ranked 7,885, it remains a rare choice, given to roughly 1 in every 123,636 girls. Though its top states are not statistically distinct enough to list, the name carries a Scottish origin that may appeal to families with heritage ties. Lesli is a straightforward alternative to the more common Leslie, offering a subtle distinction in spelling.
Lesli is a variant of Leslie, a surname derived from a Scottish place name. The original Gaelic form is believed to be 'Lesslyn', possibly meaning 'garden of holly' (from 'leas' meaning garden and 'cuileann' meaning holly) or 'gray fortress' (from 'lios' meaning fort and 'glaise' meaning gray). The name was first recorded as a given name in the 19th century, gaining popularity in the United States. Lesli, with an 'i', emerged as a common respelling during the mid-20th century.
Where Lesli is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Sibling names for Lesli
Names that share Lesli's style, for a brother or sister.
