LESLEY

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Lesley

Lesley is a British surname of Scottish origin, derived from the Old Gaelic personal name Leslie meaning "garden of holly". The earliest recorded instance of the name dates back to the 12th century in Aberdeenshire, Scotland.

The Leslie clan is one of the oldest and most distinguished families in Scottish history. The Leslies were powerful landowners and prominent figures in the political and military spheres of medieval Scotland. The family held the title of Earls of Rothes and played significant roles in various historical events, including the Wars of Scottish Independence and the Jacobite uprisings.

Over time, the surname Lesley has spread beyond Scotland, with individuals bearing the name residing in various parts of the United Kingdom and around the world. The name has undergone different spellings and variations, including Leslie and Lassly.

Today, individuals with the surname Lesley can be found in diverse professions, including academia, arts, business, and politics, contributing to the rich tapestry of British society. The name Lesley continues to evoke a sense of heritage, history, and pride among those who bear it.

There are approximately 448 people named Lesley in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around seven in a million people in Britain are named Lesley.

Surname type: From given name or forename

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

David
Edward
Eric
James
John
Marc
Mark
Michael
Robert
Simon
Stephen

Female

Ann
Catherine
Claire
Diane
Emma
Janet
Joyce
Louise
Mary
Rebecca
Susanne
Victoria

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.