Leland is a name of English origin, derived from the Old English elements 'lean' meaning "bold" or "brave", and 'land' meaning "land". The name was first used as a given name in the Middle Ages, but it was more commonly used as a surname during this time.
The name Leland is thought to have been brought to England by Scandinavian settlers. It is believed that the name was originally a descriptive nickname given to someone who lived on bold or brave lands. The name has also been associated with the Norman-French family name 'Le Landes', which means "of the lands".
Over time, the name Leland has become more popular as a given name. In the United States, for example, it was not commonly used until the late 19th century, but since then its popularity has steadily increased. Today, it is considered to be a strong and distinctive name that carries with it a sense of bravery and adventurous spirit.
Some notable people who have borne the name Leland include the American poet and writer, James Leland (1843-1917), and the Canadian ice hockey player, Alexander "Alex" Laliberté-Leland (born 1986). Despite its historical origins, the name Leland remains a modern choice for parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their child.
The name Leland has seen a varied trend in popularity over the years in the United States, with fluctuations ranging from as low as 107 births in 2001 to as high as 963 births in 2010. The early 20th century saw a significant increase in its popularity, with the number of births reaching triple digits by 1911 and peaking at 1029 births in 2007.
Despite a decline after this peak, Leland remained relatively popular throughout the late 20th century and into the early 21st century. However, since around the year 2015, there has been a noticeable decrease in its popularity, with fewer than 800 births each year since then.
As of 2023, the total number of births for the name Leland in the United States is 56826. Despite the recent decline in popularity, it remains a distinctive and unique name choice. It's essential to remember that popularity trends can vary significantly between regions and over time, so what may be popular in one decade might not be as favored in another. Ultimately, choosing a name for a child is a personal decision that should reflect the parents' preferences and values, regardless of its current trend in popularity.