Leib

♂ Boy

Pronounced LYBE /ˈlaɪb/Medium

Meaning: From Yiddish Leib, 'a lion' (from Germanic lowe/lewe) — often paired with the Hebrew Yehuda (Judah, the lion)Medium

In 30 seconds: Lion-strong: Leib is Yiddish for 'a lion'. Bold, traditional, and warm — often paired with Judah.

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Origin MediumYiddish, German

MeaningFrom Yiddish Leib, 'a lion' (from Germanic lowe/lewe) — often paired with the Hebrew Yehuda (Judah, the lion)

U.S. rank (2025)#3815 ↗ Rising

2025 U.S. births29 boys (0.00% of U.S. boys)

Peak year2025

Total births (all-time)≈ 448

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

Leib comes from Yiddish Leib, 'a lion' (from Germanic lowe/lewe) — frequently coupled with Yehuda (Judah, called 'a lion' in scripture). A bold, traditional name in Ashkenazi Jewish communities; it's said 'LYBE'.

In the U.S. it appears in Orthodox communities. Rare, a-lion at the root, and bold.

Did you know? Leib means 'a lion' in Yiddish (from Germanic lowe) — often paired with the Hebrew Yehuda (Judah, 'the lion'); a bold, traditional name in Ashkenazi communities. It's said 'LYBE'.

Overall data confidence 78%

Behind the Name — Leib — etymology

Variations

LebLeibelAryeh

Nicknames

Leibel

Famous Bearers

Famous bearers coming soon.

If you like Leib…

Aryeh— the Hebrew 'lion' name

Ari— a fellow 'lion' Hebrew name

Leon— the Greek/Latin 'lion' name

Yehuda— the Judah often paired with it

Explore names like Leib

By themegerman yiddish strength

By meaningLion

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Frequently Asked

What does the name Leib mean?

Leib is Yiddish for 'a lion'.

How do you pronounce Leib?

It's said LYBE /ˈlaɪb/ — a single syllable.

Is Leib a boy or girl name?

Leib is a boy's name.

How popular is Leib?

Leib is a rare name, used in Orthodox communities.