Leah - Name Meaning and Origin
- Origin
- Hebrew
- Meaning
- Weary or tired; also associated with the Akkadian word leahu, meaning cow
- Pronunciation
- LEE-uh
- Gender
- Female
- Variations
- Lia, Lea, Leia
- Notable Namesakes
- Leah (Biblical figure, first wife of Jacob and mother of six of the twelve tribes of Israel)
Etymology & Heritage
The name Leah derives from the Hebrew Le'ah, traditionally meaning weary or tired. It also shares connections with the Akkadian word leahu, meaning cow, an animal historically admired for its nurturing and gentle nature.
Leah has a distinct significance within the Bible, where it belongs to the first wife of Jacob and mother of six of his sons who formed the twelve tribes of Israel. Its historical and etymological roots span across cultures, from Semitic language-speaking communities to Western societies, marking it as a genuinely versatile name.
Character & Essence
With its soft, lyrical quality, Leah subtly balances simplicity and profundity. Throughout poetry and literature, this name is depicted as a symbol of perseverance, gentle strength, and quiet dignity.
To bear the name Leah is to embody unassuming grace, an endearing amalgamation of strength, dedication, humility, and resilience, much like the historic and literary figures who have carried this name before. The elegance that Leah brings isn't loud or flashy, but serene and enduring.