Leighton
Leighton is a girl's name of English origin.
Meaning
Meadow town or farm where leeks grow.
Origin and history
Leighton is a traditional English habitational name derived from Old English elements meaning meadow town or leek settlement. Originally used primarily as a surname and masculine given name, it has experienced a significant rise in popularity for girls in the United States since the 2010s. Its modern appeal is driven by its unisex tone and popular -ton ending.
Popularity in the United States
12,412 babies in the United States have been named Leighton since 1880. It ranks #1446 all-time. Among babies born since 2020 it ranks #372.
States where it is most popular
- TX (13.5 %)
- CA (6 %)
- FL (5 %)
- GA (4.2 %)
- NC (4 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 0 |
| 1890-1900 | 0 |
| 1900-1910 | 0 |
| 1910-1920 | 0 |
| 1920-1930 | 0 |
| 1930-1940 | 0 |
| 1940-1950 | 0 |
| 1950-1960 | 6 |
| 1960-1970 | 0 |
| 1970-1980 | 0 |
| 1980-1990 | 57 |
| 1990-2000 | 227 |
| 2000-2010 | 932 |
| 2010-2019 | 6,204 |
| 2020-2029 | 4,986 |
Famous people named Leighton
- Leighton Meester: Actress, Singer
Fun facts
- Leighton originates from various places in England named for growing leeks, an essential historical crop.
- While historically used for boys, Leighton entered widespread usage for American girls in the 2000s and has risen rapidly in popularity.