The given name Leigh has its origins in the Old English language, derived from the word "leah," which means a meadow or clearing. This name dates back to Anglo-Saxon times in England, around the 5th to 11th centuries AD. It was originally a surname or descriptive name given to those who lived near a meadow or open field.

In its earliest recorded use as a first name, Leigh can be found in medieval English records and documents from the 13th century onwards. The name became more popular during the Renaissance period, particularly among the nobility and gentry classes in England.

One of the earliest notable bearers of the name Leigh was Leigh Hunt, an English essayist, poet, and critic who lived from 1784 to 1859. He was a prominent figure in the Romantic Movement and a close friend of writers like Lord Byron and Percy Bysshe Shelley.

Another famous individual with the name Leigh was Leigh Brackett, an American writer and screenwriter who lived from 1915 to 1978. She is best known for her contributions to the science fiction genre, including writing the screenplay for the classic film "The Empire Strikes Back" in the Star Wars franchise.

Leigh Steinberg, born in 1949, is a renowned sports agent and attorney who has represented some of the most prominent players in the National Football League (NFL), including Troy Aikman and Steve Young.

In the world of literature, Leigh Brackett, mentioned earlier, stands out as a significant figure, but there is also Leigh Hunt, an English critic and essayist from the 19th century, who was a prominent figure in the Romantic Movement.

Lastly, Leigh Ann Tuohy, born in 1960, is an American interior designer and the legal guardian of NFL player Michael Oher, whose life story was depicted in the popular film "The Blind Side."