Leni is a gender-neutral given name of German origin. It is derived from the Germanic word "leini," which means "tender" or "soft." The name Leni has been used in Germany for centuries and was particularly popular during the late 19th to early 20th century. In Finland, it is also used as a female given name.
One of the most famous bearers of the name Leni is Leni Riefenstahl, a German actress, dancer, and film director known for her controversial role in creating propaganda films for Adolf Hitler's Nazi Party. However, it is essential to note that the popularity of the name Leni predates and postdates this historical figure.
In terms of its sound and structure, Leni consists of two syllables and has a melodic rhythm when spoken aloud. It begins with the consonant letter "L" and ends with the vowel "i," creating a soft, gentle sound. The name is easy to pronounce in various languages, making it internationally recognizable.
Overall, Leni is a vintage yet timeless given name with German roots that conveys tenderness and softness. While it has been used historically as a female name, its gender-neutral origins make it an appealing choice for parents looking for a unique, unisex name option.
Based on the provided statistics, the name Leni has seen a significant increase in popularity over time in the United States. Between 1938 and 1967, there were fewer than 10 births per year with the name Leni, with some years having as few as 5 or 6 births.
However, starting from the late 1960s, the number of births with the name Leni began to rise steadily. Between 1964 and 2003, there were an average of about 7 births per year with the name Leni.
In recent years, the popularity of the name Leni has surged dramatically. From 2005 onwards, the number of annual births with this name has consistently been in the triple digits, reaching a peak of 200 births in 2023. This upward trend suggests that Leni is becoming an increasingly popular choice for parents naming their daughters.
In total, from 1938 to 2023, there have been approximately 1550 babies named Leni born in the United States. This number reflects a steady growth in popularity over time, with a significant increase in recent years.