The name Leslie is of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic name Lasal, which means garden of hollies. Leslie is a unisex name, but it has been more commonly given to girls in recent years. The name Leslie has been popularized by several notable women, including actresses Leslie Mann and Leslie Jones, as well as singer Leslie Gore. Leslie is also a popular name for fictional characters, such as Leslie Knope from the TV show Parks and Recreation and Leslie Burke from the book and movie Bridge to Terabithia. The name Leslie has a strong, confident sound, which may be why it has been associated with leadership and ambition. Leslie is a versatile name that can be shortened to various nicknames, such as Les, Lessa, or Lee. The name Leslie has been steadily declining in popularity since the 1980s, but it still remains a timeless and classic choice for parents. Leslie is a name that transcends cultural boundaries, as it is also used in countries such as Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Leslie has a strong, masculine sound, which may be why it has been used as a boy's name in some cases. The name Leslie has a positive connotation, as it is often associated with words such as happy, friendly, and outgoing.

The root form of Leslie is Leslie — meaning Holly Orchard.

Leslie remains a beloved choice, ranking #334 in the US. Timeless appeal across cultures and generations.