Find out how popular the first name Leire has been for the last 12 years (from 2012 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Leire by gender

Based on the last 12 years of data, Leire is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Leire.

The history of the first name Leire

The name Leire has its roots in the Basque language and culture, originating in the Basque Country region of northern Spain and southwestern France. It is believed to be derived from the Basque word "leira," which means "field" or "meadow." The name can be traced back to the early medieval period, around the 8th to 10th centuries.

One of the earliest known bearers of the name Leire was a Basque noblewoman who lived in the 9th century. She was the daughter of García Íñiguez, the King of Pamplona, and played a significant role in the political affairs of the region at the time.

In the 11th century, the name Leire gained religious significance when a Benedictine monastery was established in the town of Leire, in the province of Navarre, Spain. The monastery, known as the Monasterio de Leire, became an important center of religious and cultural activity, and the name Leire became closely associated with it.

Throughout the Middle Ages, the name Leire appeared in various historical records and documents related to the Basque Country and the Kingdom of Navarre. Several notable individuals bore this name, including Leire Azkarate, a 13th-century Basque noblewoman, and Leire de Lizarazu, a 14th-century Basque landowner and patron of the arts.

During the Renaissance period, the name Leire continued to be used, particularly among the Basque aristocracy and nobility. One notable figure was Leire de Idiáquez, a 16th-century Basque noblewoman who served as a lady-in-waiting to Queen Isabella of Spain.

In more recent times, the name Leire has remained popular in the Basque Country and has also gained some recognition in other parts of Spain. Leire Olaberría, a contemporary Basque writer and activist, and Leire Pajín, a Spanish politician and former minister, are two notable individuals who have borne this name.

Other individuals with the name Leire who have made their mark in various fields include Leire Martínez, a Spanish professional tennis player; Leire Iglesias, a Basque singer and songwriter; and Leire Landa, a Spanish actress and model.

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

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

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