Origin of the name Leif:
From the Old Norse Leifr, which is directly derived from leifr (what is remaining, relic), from the verb lev (to leave). Over time leif or laf became confused with the Germanic leib or lip (love) and is now often thought to mean "beloved." The name was borne by Leif Ericsson, a Norwegian explorer and adventurer who discovered North America around A.D. 1000. He was the son of Eric the Red.
From A World of Baby Names by Teresa Norman. Buy the bookDoes Leif sound...
Sibling Names for Leif...
Do you know any real life Leifs?
What are their siblings named?
Reader Contributions
Contribute to, or edit, this collection of community wisdom on the name Leif!
- Comments and insights on the name Leif: | Edit
- Share what you know!
- Personal experiences with the name Leif: | Edit
- Share what you know!
- Nicknames for Leif: | Edit
- Share what you know!
- Meanings and history of the name Leif: | Edit
Meaning: Descendant
Origin: Norse- Famous real-life people named Leif: | Edit
Leif Eriksson, Viking explorer nicknamed "Leif the Lucky," son of Erik the Red
- Leif in song, story & screen: | Edit
- Share what you know!
NameVoyager US Popularity of Leif Over Time
NameMapper Current Popularity of Leif by State
Global Popularity of the Name Leif
- #347 in Norway
Baby Name Wizard Store
Celebrate with personalized baby name products! Custom birth announcements, invitations, bibs, onesies & more.
Start Shopping