Leslie
Leslie is a girl name of Scottish origin meaning “Holly garden”, pronounced LEZ-lee. It ranked #712 in the United States in 2025, given to 393 babies, and peaked at #56 in 1981. Common nicknames: Les, Lee.
How popular is Leslie in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Leslie mean, and where does it come from?
Leslie is a Scottish place name in Aberdeenshire, usually read as the garden of hollies, that became the name of a powerful Lowland family. It crossed into given-name use for boys in the nineteenth century — Leslie Howard, Leslie Nielsen — and shifted to girls in America through the middle of the twentieth, reaching 56th place in 1981. In Britain the two spellings divide the sexes: Leslie for men, Lesley for women. In the United States it now belongs almost entirely to women.
How is Leslie used around the world?
Leslie is used in 2 languages worldwide, with 3+ international variants.
TypeUnisex name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Leslie?
Famous People Named Leslie
- Leslie Caron — French-American actress and dancer
- Leslie Jones — American comedian and actress
- Leslie Nielsen — Canadian-American actor and comedian
Similar Names to Leslie
If you like Leslie, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Leslie
Looking for names that pair well with Leslie? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Leslie mean?
Leslie is a girl name of Scottish origin meaning "Holly garden." Leslie is a Scottish place name in Aberdeenshire, usually read as the garden of hollies, that became the name of a powerful Lowland family. It crossed into given-name use for boys in the nineteenth century — Leslie Howard, Leslie Nielsen — and shifted to girls in America through the middle of the twentieth, reaching 56th place in 1981.
How do you pronounce Leslie?
Leslie is pronounced LEZ-lee. Common variations include Lesley, Leslee, Lesly.
Is Leslie a girl name?
Yes, Leslie is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Les, Lee.