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Lea

Girl / Boy name · 246 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Lea: 246 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to both boys and girls, peaking at 13 births in 1976.

Lea is a name with multiple origins, most commonly a short form of Leah, which comes from the Hebrew name Le'ah, meaning "weary" or "delicate." It also stands as a feminine form of Lee, from the Old English *leah*, meaning "clearing" or "meadow." The name gained international recognition through the iconic Star Wars princess Leia Organa, played by Carrie Fisher, though the spelling differs. In the world of music, French singer Lea Castel has brought the name a contemporary European flair. The spelling Lea is particularly popular in Scotland, where it has been a steady choice for girls since the 1970s, often chosen for its simple elegance and cross-cultural appeal.

Girl 43 of 52 years

Peak year
197613 babies
Latest (2025)
#6324 babies
Total births
243since 1974
5-year trend
≈ stablevs prior 5y
1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 1976 · 13
Births per year in Scotland. Missing years had a count of 2 or fewer (suppressed by NRS).

Boy 1 of 52 years

Peak year
19853 babies
Latest (1985)
#3113 babies
Total births
3since 1985
5-year trend
≈ stablevs prior 5y
1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 1985 · 3
Births per year in Scotland. Missing years had a count of 2 or fewer (suppressed by NRS).