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Legend
Pronounced LEJ-end /ˈlɛdʒ.ənd/High
Meaning: A story to be read; a remarkable, enduring story or person — from Latin <em>legenda</em> (things to be read)High
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
History & Origin
Legend is an English word derived from Medieval Latin legenda, the gerundive of legere (to read), meaning 'things to be read.' It referred originally to hagiographies — saints' lives read aloud in churches. Over time the word evolved to mean any remarkable, heroic story or the remarkable person at its center.
As a given name, Legend is part of a contemporary American trend for powerful, aspirational word-names alongside names like King, Ace, and Major. It entered the U.S. top 200 boys' names around 2013 and has continued rising, favored by parents who want a name that sets a high bar.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Legend mean?
Legend comes from Medieval Latin <em>legenda</em> (things to be read) and means a remarkable, enduring story or an extraordinary person.
How do you pronounce Legend?
Legend is pronounced LEJ-end /ˈlɛdʒ.ənd/ — two syllables with stress on the first.
Is Legend a boy or girl name?
Legend is used predominantly as a boy's name in the U.S.
How popular is Legend?
Legend entered the U.S. top 200 boys' names around 2013 and has continued to rise as aspirational word-names gain popularity.