Boy name · Norse

Leif

“Heir, beloved”

Meaning
Heir, beloved
Origin
Norse
Gender
Boy
Syllables
1
Popularity
Rare in the US
Style
Classic
Used in
Nordic, English-speaking countries

What people expect from a Leif

Leif mixes soft and sharp sounds, so people tend to read it as steady and balanced. Being rare in the US, it stands out, and will be spelt back to you a few times.

The meaning is about love. A name can't give a child love, but it's a nice thing to explain to them one day.

A good fit if you hope for: a kind heart.

Names set expectations, not personalities. What the research says.

Leif: name scorecard

Save your future kid some trouble: give them a name they can live and grow with.

97/100

Great choice

Leif

  • International readabilitySimple letters that read the same almost everywhere.
  • Easy to say and spellSays itself: 1 syllable, spelt how it sounds.
  • Not too common, not too strangeRare in the US: memorable, and it will be spelt out a lot.
  • Playground-proofNo obvious rude words or rhymes. Kids are creative, though.
  • Won't get you sued (or refused)Nothing a registrar would object to in most countries.
  • A meaning to be proud ofMeans "Heir, beloved".
Advertisement

Names with a similar meaning

BenjaminLeviDavidMuhammadCalebThomasBeauZaynValentinoJude

More Norse names

ErikBjornRagnar

Did you know?

A New Zealand judge made a 9-year-old a ward of court so she could change her name. It was Talula Does The Hula From Hawaii.

Family Court of New Zealand (2008)

Questions about Leif

What does the name Leif mean?

Leif is a boy's name of Norse origin meaning "Heir, beloved".

Is Leif a boy or girl name?

Leif is usually a boy's name.

How popular is the name Leif?

Leif is rare in the US. It is used in Nordic, English-speaking countries.

Fun, but true. Name meanings come from common etymologies, which sometimes disagree. Height and weight paths are estimates from population growth data and published studies, not a medical assessment. If you're worried about your child's growth, talk to your paediatrician. Full disclaimer