Raleigh

boyOld English

Raleigh is an boy name of Old English origin, meaning “Red clearing, or roe-deer meadow”.

MeaningRed clearing, or roe-deer meadow
GenderBoy
OriginOld English
PronunciationRAW-lee
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited States, United Kingdom

Meaning and origin of Raleigh

Raleigh is an English surname taken from a place name, built from Old English elements meaning 'clearing' (lēah) and either 'red' or 'roe deer'; scholars are not certain which. Its best-known bearer is Sir Walter Raleigh, the Elizabethan explorer and courtier, after whom the capital of North Carolina is named. As a first name it is rare and is also pronounced RAH-lee in some families.

Is Raleigh a religious name?

Raleigh has no religious background; it is an English place name and surname used as a given name.

How popular is Raleigh?

Rare as a first name, mostly found in the United States.

Gifts with the name Raleigh

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Spellings and variants of Raleigh

RaleghRawley

Names similar to Raleigh

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Raleigh mean?

Raleigh means 'Red clearing, or roe-deer meadow'. It is of Old English origin.

Does Raleigh have a religious meaning?

Raleigh has no religious background; it is an English place name and surname used as a given name.

How do you pronounce Raleigh?

Raleigh is pronounced RAW-lee.

Is Raleigh a boy or girl name?

Raleigh is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.