Find out how popular the first name Aleighna has been for the last 17 years (from 2008 to 2024) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Aleighna by gender

Based on the last 17 years of data, Aleighna is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2024, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Aleighna.

The history of the first name Aleighna

The name Aleighna has its origins in the ancient Celtic culture that once dominated parts of Europe, particularly the British Isles. It is believed to be derived from the Old Irish Gaelic word "alainn," which means "beautiful" or "handsome." This suggests that the name may have been initially used to describe someone with striking physical features or a pleasing appearance.

One of the earliest recorded references to the name Aleighna can be found in the Annals of Ulster, a chronicle of medieval Irish history compiled by monks in the late 15th century. The entry, dated around the year 1175, mentions an individual named "Aleighna mac Murchadha," which translates to "Aleighna, son of Murchadh." This provides evidence that the name was in use among the Gaelic-speaking communities of Ireland during the Middle Ages.

Throughout the centuries, several notable individuals have borne the name Aleighna. In the 16th century, Aleighna O'Rourke (1512-1583) was a prominent chieftain and warrior who played a significant role in the Irish Confederate Wars against English rule. Another historical figure was Aleighna MacLeod (1678-1741), a Scottish clan chief and poet known for his contributions to Gaelic literature.

In the 19th century, Aleighna Ballard (1822-1891) was an American abolitionist and suffragist who fought for the abolition of slavery and women's rights. She was actively involved in the Underground Railroad, helping enslaved people escape to freedom.

Moving into the 20th century, Aleighna Pryor (1912-2002) was a renowned African-American sculptor and artist whose works celebrated the beauty and resilience of the Black experience. Her sculptures can be found in numerous museums and public spaces across the United States.

Another notable figure was Aleighna Kazemi (1938-2003), an Iranian-Canadian photojournalist who was tragically killed while imprisoned in Iran. Her courageous reporting and advocacy for human rights brought international attention to the oppressive treatment of journalists and dissidents in the country.

While the name Aleighna has Celtic roots, it has been adopted and used across various cultures and regions over time. Its meaning and history reflect a rich tapestry of stories, from ancient traditions to modern icons, each embodying the beauty and strength that the name represents.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Aleighna was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Aleighna, please contact us.

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