ST LEGER
Also recorded as StLeger, Stleger
St Leger
St Leger, also spelled as St Ledger, is an ancient British surname of Norman origin. The name is believed to have originated from the French word "leger", meaning light or nimble, and may have been used as a nickname for a swift or agile person. The prefix "St" or "Saint" was later added to the surname, possibly in honour of a saint who was venerated by the early bearers of the name.
The St Leger family is known to have been prominent in British history, with individuals bearing the surname playing significant roles in various fields, including military, politics, and sport. The most famous association with the name is the St Leger Stakes, one of the five classic horse races of the British flat racing season.
Over the centuries, the St Leger surname has spread geographically, with branches of the family establishing themselves in different parts of the United Kingdom and further afield. The surname has also given rise to variant spellings such as "St Ledger" and "Sinnett-Leger".
Today, individuals with the St Leger surname can be found across the world, and many continue to take pride in their heritage and history. The name remains a symbol of strength, resilience, and tradition in British culture.
There are approximately 147 people named St Leger in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named St Leger.