Origin and Meaning of Lee

Meadow / Clearing

Origin: Old English - Derived from the Old English term 'leah' meaning 'woodland clearing' or 'meadow.' It is often used as both a given name and surname.

• Lee is a widely popular unisex name, commonly used in English-speaking countries as both a first name and surname.
• In addition to its Anglo-Saxon roots, Lee has also been used in East Asian cultures, particularly as a surname in Chinese (李), where it is one of the most common surnames.
• Notable bearers of the name include the renowned American civil rights leader Robert E. Lee and the popular American actor Lee Majors.
• In the United States, the name saw significant popularity during the mid-20th century, especially for males, though it remains in use today for both genders.
• Variations of the name include Leigh, Leeann, and Leena, reflecting slight adjustments in spelling or usage.