Lee: Name Day, Name Meaning & More
Name days are historically significant celebrations in many cultures, often honoring the saint or tradition associated with the given name on a particular calendar date. For the name Lee, its history showcases a durable presence in Western naming practices, especially in the USA. Originating from Old English elements meaning "meadow," the name carries a grounded, nature-like mood. Functioning globally as a highly versatile unisex option, Lee benefits from both simplicity and strength. Furthermore, those named Lee celebrate their name day annually on March 22nd in the United States.
Name Day: Dates by Country
Lee's name day is celebrated
on March 22 in the USA.
The Story Behind This Name
The name Lee has maintained a consistent presence in the United States, peaking significantly in popularity during the mid-20th century, particularly from the 1930s through the 1950s. While traditionally utilized as a surname, its transition into a popular given name solidified its place in American naming conventions. The name experienced a steady decline in ranking through the late 20th century but remains a recognizable and enduring classic. Its history reflects a preference for short, strong monosyllabic names often favored in American culture. Today, it still appears regularly on birth records, carrying a legacy of traditional simplicity.
Name origin and meaning
The name Lee primarily derives from an Old English element meaning "clearing," "meadow," or "pasture." It describes someone who lived by a place characterized by open land or sheltered ground. In some contexts, particularly East Asian usage, the name often functions as a transcription of the Chinese surname Li (ć), which translates to "plum." This dual heritage gives the name varied etymological roots depending on its cultural context. Historically, the surname form dominated usage before its adoption as a given name.
Name Identity: Gender Classification
Lee is overwhelmingly classified as a unisex name, though its usage trends vary significantly by region and era. In the United States, it has traditionally been more common for males but is frequently given to females, often as a middle name or a short form of longer names like Lesley or Leanne. Globally, particularly in East Asian naming cultures (as a variant of Li), it is predominantly used as a surname, not directly associated with gender as a given name. Its concise structure lends itself well to both masculine and feminine applications. Therefore, while leaning slightly male in Western given name statistics, it maintains a strong identity as a truly gender-neutral option.
The Name Effect: Mood, Tone & Personality
The name Lee projects a classic, sturdy, and slightly traditional mood. It is concise and strong, conveying an undeniable sense of straightforwardness and grounded reliability. The tone is decidedly simple and unpretentious, reflecting a nature-like quality associated with meadows and clearings. It avoids being overly playful or overtly elegant, instead favoring a practical and enduring sensibility. This monosyllabic structure gives it an efficient, no-nonsense vibe.
Unlocking the Hidden Meaning of Name: Lee
Your name is more than just a label - it holds a unique energy that influences your personality, destiny, and life path. Through numerology and astrology, we uncover the deeper meanings behind your name, revealing your strengths, challenges, and the energy you bring into the world.
Pythagorean Numerology: The Hidden Meaning of Name
Destiny number: 4 â The Builder
Keywords: Stability, structure, practicality, diligence, discipline
Positive Traits: Hardworking, dependable, detail-oriented, disciplined, loyal
Challenges: Can be rigid, stubborn, or overly cautious
Life Path Meaning: A mission to create a solid foundation through persistence and structure.
Chaldean Numerology: Name Energy and Spiritual Insights
First name number: 4 - The Builder.
Traits: Practical, disciplined, hardworking, stable.
Strengths: Reliable, strong work ethic, good organizer, structured.
Challenges: Can be rigid, stubborn, or struggle with change.
The Cosmic Secret Code: What The Name Says About You
The name is linked to the planet that governs it, shaping the name's meaning and influencing the traits associated with it.
Planet: Uranus - Innovation, Rebellion, Originality.
Uranus governs innovation, change, and forward-thinking. Names under Uranusâ influence often belong to individuals who are unconventional, independent, and visionary. These names resonate with those who challenge norms, embrace individuality, and thrive in creative or technological fields. Uranus-ruled names often suggest uniqueness and originality.
Name days: Name Lee
This list shows name days in different countries where the name is written in the same form. The dates are based on traditional calendars and cultural name celebrations. If your name matches exactly, you can see when it is honored in various parts of the world.
Name days: Similar names (Lee)
Here youâll find name days for names that are similar in spelling, pronunciation, or origin. Many cultures group related names together, even if they are not identical. If your name has a close variation, you may find relevant name day dates in this section.
| Country | Month | Day | Name days |
 USA | January | 1 | Arleen, Arlen, Arlene, Arlette, Pablo, Paul, Saul |
 Finland | January | 5 | Lea, Leea |
| USA | January | 28 | Carlotta, Charleen, Charlene, Charlotta, Charlotte, Charmaine, Manfred |
 Estonia | February | 2 | Leegi, Säde |
| USA | February | 23 | Boswell, Gloria, Gloriana, Glory, Reilley, Riley, Rylan, Rylee, Ryleigh, Ryley, Rylie |
| USA | March | 16 | Bailee, Bailey, Baylee, Bayley, Melisa, Melissa, Melita, Melyta, Millicent, Millie, Missy |
| USA | April | 22 | Caia, Caissa, Kai, Kaila, Kailey, Kaleigh, Kaley, Kay, Kayla, Kaylee, Kayleigh, Kayley, Kaylie, Kaylin, Kaylyn, Leonidas, Makayla, Mckayla |
| USA | April | 23 | Brayan, Breana, Breanna, Breanne, Brian, Briana, Brianna, Brianne, Brielle, Brien, Briona, Bryan, Bryana, Bryanna, Bryant, Brynn, Bryon, Shirlee, Shirleen, Shirley |
| Estonia | May | 11 | Leevo, Liivar, Liivo |
| USA | May | 14 | Asher, Ashlee, Ashleigh, Ashley, Ashlie, Ashlyn, Ashlynn, Ashton, Berk, Berkeley, Bourke, Burgess, Burke |
| USA | May | 22 | Jolee, Joleen, Jolene, Jolie, Marshall |
| USA | May | 25 | Madalyn, Madeleine, Madeline, Madelyn, Madilyn, Marlee, Marleen, Marlena, Marlene, Marley |
| USA | June | 1 | Brigham, June, Junella, Marilee, Marilou, Marilu, Marilyn, Marylynn |
| USA | June | 28 | Dara, Darla, Darleen, Darlene, Darrell, Darren, Darrin, Darryl, Daryl, Jarell, Jerrell |
| Estonia | July | 22 | Leen, Leena, Leeni, Made, Madli, Magda, Magdaleena, Mall, Malle |
| Finland | July | 22 | Leena, Leeni, Lenita, Matleena |
| Estonia | August | 18 | Elina, Heleene, Helen, Helena, Helene, Hell, Hella, Helle, Hellen, Helli, Ilona |
| Finland | August | 18 | Leevi |
| USA | August | 18 | Aileen, Eileen, Elaina, Elaine, Eleanor, Elena, Eliana, Ella, Elle, Ellen, Ellie, Helen, Helena, Iliana, Lena, Leonora, Nell, Nellie, Nelly |
| USA | September | 20 | Eustace, Eustacia, Hailee, Hailey, Haleigh, Haley, Halie, Halle, Hallie, Haylee, Hayley |
| Estonia | October | 2 | Leela, Leeli, Leelo |
| Estonia | October | 23 | Leevi, Liivi, Liivia, Liivika |
| USA | November | 4 | Amory, Cara, Carl, Carla, Carley, Carlo, Carlos, Carly, Carol, Carolina, Caroline, Carolyn, Carrie, Carroll, Charles, Charlie, Chaz, Chuck, Emery, Karl, Karla, Karlee, Karli, Karly |
| USA | November | 12 | Colan, Colin, Colleen, Collin, Cullan, Cullen, Culver, Kiley, Kyla, Kyle, Kylee, Kyleigh, Kyler, Kylier |
| Estonia | November | 23 | Kleement, Leemet, Leemo |
| USA | November | 25 | Caitlin, Caitlyn, Carina, Caryn, Catherine, Cathleen, Cathy, Kaitlin, Kaitlynn, Kara, Karen, Kari, Karina, Kate, Katelyn, Katelynn, Katharine, Katherine, Kathleen, Kathryn, Kathy, Katie, Katrina, Treena, Trina, Trinity |
| USA | December | 10 | Emely, Emilee, Emilia, Emilie, Emily, Eula, Eulalia, Ula |
Lee A Simple Strong Classic
In summary, the name Lee is a deeply rooted American classic, having transitioned smoothly from a surname to a popular given name throughout the 20th century. Its simple etymology relates to open clearings and pastures, lending it a distinctly earthy and reliable mood. Lee is notably recognized worldwide as a prominent unisex name, suitable for any gender due to its brevity and adaptability. This concise identity is further commemorated on March 22nd, which serves as the designated name day in the USA. Overall, Lee stands as an enduring choice defined by its straightforward strength and traditional appeal.
When Is Your Name Day?
Discover your name day quickly and easily with our name day search tool. Simply enter your name in the search box below, and you'll instantly see the exact date of your name day celebration. Find out when to celebrate and never miss a special occasion!
