Popularity: 1499
Origin: Hebrew
Other Origin(s): British; Hawaiann
Meaning: Delicate; Weary; Meadow, field
Lea is a short form gender-neutral name crafted from the Hebrew Leah. First borne as le'ah, Lea means "delicate" or "weary" in honor of the unloved wife of the Biblical patriarch Jacob. Though scripture may render Leah a demure alternative to her more illustrious sister Rachel, the name has stood the test of time as a symbol of humility. It's a title of underestimated vigor, reinforced by Leah's ability to give Jacob a first-born son when Rachel could not. Alternatively, Lea means "meadow" or "field" in English, as a possible derivation of the surname Lee. Finally, Lea has Hawaiian connections, as it is the name of the mythological Hawaiian goddess of canoe makers and builders. With such a wide reach, this short and sweet moniker is sure to inspire your little one!