Leith as a Baby Name. Meaning and Origin of Leith

What is the meaning of the name Leith ?

The baby name Leith is a Male name , 1 syllables long and is pronounced LEETH (IPA: /liːθ/).

Leith is Scottish in Origin.

Leith is a Scottish place-derived name from the historic port district of Edinburgh, taking its name from the Water of Leith. The river’s name is Brittonic or Celtic, probably linked to roots meaning “moist” or “flowing,” so the given name is often glossed as “from the river.” Independently, Leith also serves as an English transliteration of the Arabic boy’s name Laith/Layth, “lion.” Common variant spellings include Laith and Layth.

As a given name in English, Leith emerged in the 19th century through the surname and place-name tradition and remains uncommon but recognizable in Scotland and the wider Anglophone world. It has been used for both boys and girls. Notable bearers include composer Leith Stevens and Australian swimmer Leith Brodie. The blend of maritime Scottish heritage and the bold Arabic “lion” meaning gives Leith a cosmopolitan, concise choice with deep roots.