Leif
leif
US Popularity:1784
Origin:Scandinavian
Other Origin(s):Norse
Meaning:Heir, descendant
Leif is a fearless masculine name rooted in Viking history and given to great adventure. Scandinavian in origin, Leif stems from the Old Norse leifr and means "descendent" or "heir." Far from princely sentiments, Leif's translations showcase the impressive inheritance of the famous explorer Leifr Eiríksson. Born the son of Erik the Red—who founded the first European settlement on Greenland—Leifr not only followed his father's footsteps but blazed a trail all of his own. The 11th-century pathfinder is heralded as the first to step foot on the North American continent, 500 years before Christopher Columbus. Time will tell what fresh new ground young Leif will break.
How Popular Is The Name Leif?
The Bump Ranking
Overall:Leif is currently #1273 on The Bump
Boy:Leif is currently #703 on The Bump Boy Names
U.S. Births
Overall:Leif is currently #1784 in U.S. births
Boy:Leif is currently #860 in U.S. births
Yearly Ranking Change:
Year:
2023
#860
in 2023
- 22
from 2022
Sources
WordSense, Leif
Ancestry, Leif Family History
Britannica, Leif Erikson, Norse explorer, October 2023
Behind the Name, Leif, July 2015
Learn how we keep our content accurate and up-to-date by reading our medical review and editorial process.
Was this page helpful?
Yes
No
Search Baby Boy Names
Search by:
Article saved.Go to My Saved Articles
Article removed.
Name added. View Your List