Scandinavian · boy
Leif
A distinctive name with a calm, steady presence.
Meaning
Heir or descendant
Leif is a rare boy name with Scandinavian roots. In 2024, 250 newborns in the U.S. were given the name — ranking it #925 nationally, and its popularity has held steady in recent years. Its style leans short — tags you can match against your partner's picks in the combiner.
About Scandinavian names
Scandinavian names descend from Old Norse, where names invoked gods, strength, and the sea, and were often built from two joined elements. The modern Nordic taste, though, runs crisp and minimal — short, clear names like Astrid, Soren, Freya, and Nils. That combination of Viking backbone and clean-lined simplicity is exactly what draws American parents to them now.
Meaning and origin are editorial; U.S. popularity comes from Social Security Administration public files.
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