Len is a name of Irish origin and means "little lamb" in Gaelic. It is a diminutive form of the name Leonard, which itself comes from the German name Leonhard meaning "lion strong". The name Len has been used historically as a masculine given name but can also be used as a feminine given name.
The name Len first appeared in the late Middle Ages and became more popular during the Victorian era. It was often used as a nickname or short form of Leonard, but it could also be used independently.
Some notable individuals with the name Len include American baseball player Len Barker, Australian rules footballer Len Thompson, and British actor Len Cariou. The name Len is also used in literature, such as in the novel "Len" by Romanian author Norman Manea.
Overall, Len is a short, simple, and unique name that has historical roots and a straightforward meaning. It is a popular choice for parents looking for a non-traditional name with a touch of Irish heritage.
The name Len has seen a varied trend in popularity over the years in the United States, with a total of 102 babies being named Len between 1932 and 1972. The name's highest point of popularity was in 1964, with 10 births that year. Conversely, there were five births each in 1932, 1949, 1968, and 1970, indicating a lower popularity during those years. The majority of Len's popularity occurred between 1950 and 1964, with the highest numbers of births recorded during these decades. Overall, the name Len has had a steady, albeit fluctuating, presence in the United States over this period.