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Leana
Pronounced LEEN-a /ˈlin.æ/Medium
Meaning: Weary, grievedMedium
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.
History & Origin
It comes from the Sotho language of Southern Africa, where its meaning carries a sense of weariness or grief. That kind of plainly emotional meaning is common in Sotho naming, where a name can reflect circumstance or feeling. Outside that context it is often read simply as a flowing, melodic given name.
The three open vowels give it a gentle, unhurried rhythm. The American physician Leana Wen, a former Baltimore health commissioner, is one recognizable bearer of the spelling.
Variations
Nicknames
Famous Bearers
- ★Leana Wen (1983–present)American physician, former Baltimore health commissioner and Planned Parenthood president, TIME 100 honoree.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Leana mean?
Leana is usually explained as meaning 'weary, grieved' and is most often linked with Sotho tradition.
How do you pronounce Leana?
It's commonly said LEEN-a /ˈlin.æ/.
Is Leana a boy or girl name?
In this batch and in recent U.S. usage data, Leana is used as a girl name.
How popular is Leana?
In 2024, Leana ranked #2119 in the U.S. for girls, with 90 births recorded.