Leiko first name popularity, history and meaning

Find out how popular the first name Leiko has been for the last 1 years (from 2021 to 2021) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Meaning of Leiko

A feminine Japanese name meaning "arrogant" or "blessed child".

Popularity of Leiko by gender

Based on the last 1 years of data, Leiko is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2021, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Leiko.

Year Male Count Female Count
2021 0 5

The history of the first name Leiko

The name Leiko has its origins in Japanese culture, derived from the words "rei" meaning "礼" (courtesy or respect) and "ko" meaning "子" (child). It is a feminine name that emerged during the Heian period (794-1185 CE) in Japan.

In ancient Japanese texts, the name Leiko can be found referenced in several historical records and literature from the Heian era. It was a popular name among nobility and samurai families, often given to daughters as a representation of their desired virtues and grace.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Leiko dates back to the 11th century, when a noblewoman named Leiko Fujiwara was mentioned in the historical chronicle "Okagami" (The Great Mirror). Leiko Fujiwara was known for her exceptional calligraphy skills and her involvement in court poetry circles.

Throughout history, several notable figures have borne the name Leiko. In the 16th century, Leiko Hosokawa was a renowned poet and calligrapher who played a significant role in preserving traditional Japanese arts during the turbulent Sengoku period (1467-1615 CE).

Another prominent figure was Leiko Ikemoto (1904-1987), a Japanese author and educator who wrote extensively on children's literature and advocated for educational reforms in post-war Japan. Her works helped shape the literary landscape and influenced generations of young readers.

In the realm of performing arts, Leiko Sumida (1926-2014) was a celebrated Kabuki actor and Living National Treasure of Japan. She was renowned for her mastery of the onnagata (female roles performed by male actors) and her dedication to preserving the traditional art form.

Leiko Hoshi (1920-2001) was a pioneering Japanese scientist who made significant contributions to the field of genetics and cytogenetics. She was the first woman to receive a doctoral degree in agriculture from the University of Tokyo and paved the way for future female scientists in Japan.

Leiko Ikemura (born 1936) is a renowned Japanese artist and sculptor known for her unique style that blends Eastern and Western influences. Her works have been exhibited in major museums and galleries around the world, showcasing the versatility and depth of the name Leiko.

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 Leiko was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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"Leiko first name popularity, history and meaning". NameCensus.com. Accessed on April 29, 2025. http://namecensus.com/first-names/leiko-meaning-and-history/.

"Leiko first name popularity, history and meaning". NameCensus.com, http://namecensus.com/first-names/leiko-meaning-and-history/. Accessed 29 April, 2025

Leiko first name popularity, history and meaning. NameCensus.com. Retrieved from http://namecensus.com/first-names/leiko-meaning-and-history/.

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