Leif
Leif first appears in US records in 1912. It peaked in 2022, when 290 boys were given the name; in 2025 there were 257.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Leif popular?
Near its peak Leif is more popular now than at almost any point on record, peaking in 2022.
| 2020s | 1,542 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 1,971 | |
| 2000s | 1,329 | |
| 1990s | 878 | |
| 1980s | 1,231 | |
| 1970s | 1,158 | |
| 1960s | 886 | |
| 1950s | 442 | |
| 1940s | 196 | |
| 1930s | 111 | |
| 1920s | 126 | |
| 1910s | 127 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Leif mean?
Leif means “heir” or “descendant” in Old Norse.
Names like Leif
Norse names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Leif
Popular Norse names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Leif
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Leif mean?
Leif means Heir, descendant. Leif means “heir” or “descendant” in Old Norse.
What is the origin of the name Leif?
Leif is of Norse origin.
How do you pronounce Leif?
Leif is pronounced “LAYF.”
Is Leif a boy or a girl name?
Leif is most commonly used as a boy name.
Is Leif a popular name right now?
Leif is more popular now than at almost any point on record, peaking in 2022.
How popular is the name Leif?
In 2025, Leif ranked #917 among boys’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Leif most popular?
Leif was most popular in 2022, when about 290 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What names are similar to Leif?
Names similar to Leif include Bjorn, Magnus, Ivar, Thor, Ragnar.
What names go well with Leif?
Norse names that pair well with Leif include Eric, Erik, Freya, Odin, Astrid.