Leslie

unisexScottish

Leslie is a unisex name of Scottish origin, meaning “Possibly 'holly garden' or 'court'”.

MeaningPossibly 'holly garden' or 'court'
GenderUnisex
OriginScottish
PronunciationLEZ-lee
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited Kingdom, United States, Canada

Meaning and origin of Leslie

Leslie comes from a place name in Aberdeenshire that became the surname of Clan Leslie. The meaning is uncertain: it is often explained as 'garden of holly' or 'court of hollies', from Gaelic elements, but scholars are not agreed. As a first name it was mainly male in Britain, while in the United States it became mostly a girls' name, often spelled Lesley.

Is Leslie a religious name?

Leslie is a secular Scottish name with no religious meaning.

How popular is Leslie?

Used for both genders; in Britain Leslie is more often male, in America mostly female.

Gifts with the name Leslie

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Spellings and variants of Leslie

Names similar to Leslie

More unisex names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Leslie mean?

Leslie means 'Possibly 'holly garden' or 'court''. It is of Scottish origin.

Does Leslie have a religious meaning?

Leslie is a secular Scottish name with no religious meaning.

How do you pronounce Leslie?

Leslie is pronounced LEZ-lee.

Is Leslie a boy or girl name?

Leslie is used for both boys and girls.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.