Lev: Name Day, Name Meaning & More

Name days are cultural traditions, especially prevalent in Catholic and Orthodox countries, where individuals celebrate the feast day associated with their given name. These days often hold spiritual significance or mark historical events related to saints or martyrs. The name Lev, rooted in the meaning 'lion,' establishes a mood of classic strength and masculine dignity, reflecting its Slavic origins. In terms of tradition, Lev has a distinct name day celebrated annually on February 19 in Ukraine, underscoring its deep ties to Eastern European culture. This combination of powerful meaning, strong tone, and established tradition makes Lev a distinguished choice.

Name Day: Dates by Country

Lev's name day is celebrated on February 19 in Ukraine.

The Story Behind This Name

Lev maintains a relatively niche presence within the United States, often being encountered in communities with strong Eastern European or Russian heritage. While it is not a consistently top-ranking name on US popularity charts, its usage has seen subtle growth in recent decades, perhaps due to the rise of short, strong names. Historically, the name arrived in America primarily through waves of immigration starting in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. For many US bearers, Lev serves as an accessible Anglicization or shortened form of longer, traditional Slavic names. This classic, monosyllabic structure gives it a sophisticated yet simple feel when used in a modern American context.

Name origin and meaning

The name Lev is widely recognized as having Slavic and Hebrew linguistic roots, though its primary adoption is within Slavic languages. In Russian and several other related tongues, Lev directly translates to the powerful animal, the lion. This straightforward meaning imparts connotations of strength, royalty, and courage inherent in the name itself. A separate lineage traces the name to the Hebrew element meaning "heart," emphasizing affection and core vitality. Therefore, depending on the cultural context, the name carries dual associations of regal power or deep emotional connection.

Name Identity: Gender Classification

Globally, Lev is overwhelmingly classified and used as a masculine given name, maintaining a strong male identity across numerous countries. Its historical and traditional usage in Russia, Ukraine, and Eastern Europe solidifies its standing specifically within the male naming pool. There are almost no known instances where Lev is traditionally utilized as a feminine name or even a universally recognized unisex option. Occasionally, similar-sounding names in other linguistic groups might be feminine, but Lev itself remains strictly male. Thus, in modern contexts from Europe to the Americas, this short name is exclusively assigned to boys.

The Name Effect: Mood, Tone & Personality

Lev conveys a decidedly strong and classic mood, often interpreted as sophisticated yet unpretentious due to its brevity. The name evokes a powerful energy, fitting the image of someone determined and inherently courageous. There is a deeply rooted regal tone stemming from its translation as 'lion,' suggesting dignity and quiet authority. While serious and traditional, its sharp sound prevents it from sounding overly formal or dated. Overall, the tone is one of reserved strength, providing an elegant and impactful personal brand.

Mirror Magic: Lev & Vel

Some names hold a hidden surprise—when reversed, they reveal another beautiful and valid name. This playful symmetry adds a unique charm, making the pair feel like secret reflections of each other. Whether by chance or design, these reversible names create a fascinating linguistic connection between two identities.

See also: Vel: Name Day, Name Meaning & More

Unlocking the Hidden Meaning of Name: Lev

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: 3 – The Communicator.
Keywords: Creativity, joy, social expression, charisma, inspiration.
Positive Traits: Artistic, optimistic, outgoing, charming, entertaining.
Challenges: Can be superficial, scattered, or struggle with focus and discipline.
Life Path Meaning: A life of creative expression, communication, and optimism.

Chaldean Numerology: Name Energy and Spiritual Insights

First name number: 5 - The Adventurer.
Traits: Energetic, freedom-loving, curious, adaptable.
Strengths: Versatile, enjoys new experiences, quick thinker.
Challenges: Can be restless, impulsive, or lack focus.

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: Jupiter - Expansion, Luck, Wisdom.
Jupiter is the planet of abundance, wisdom, and higher learning. Names ruled by Jupiter are often linked to individuals with a strong sense of optimism, generosity, and a love for adventure. These names carry a vibration of success, good fortune, and the pursuit of knowledge. People with Jupiter-ruled names often have a philosophical mindset and a natural ability to inspire others.

Name days: Name Lev

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.

Country	Month	Day	Name days
Ukraine	February	19	Leo, Lev, Levko

Name days: Similar names (Lev)

Here you’ll 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	February	8	Beula, Beulah, Clay, Clayton, Cleve, Cleveland, Clive, Clyde
USA	February	26	Levi, Nestor, Savana, Savanna, Savannah
Estonia	March	15	Valev, Valvik, Valvo
Finland	June	5	Sulevi
Hungary	June	18	Arnold, Levente
Estonia	June	23	Kalev, Malev, Malvo
Hungary	June	28	Irén, Levente
Estonia	July	6	Sulev, Sulo
Estonia	July	21	Tambet, Tulev
Estonia	July	29	Olaf, Olav, Olavi, Olev
Finland	July	29	Olavi, Olli, Oula, Uolevi, Uoti
Russia	July	29	Alevtina, Valentina
Estonia	August	13	Teedo, Teedu, Teet, Teetlev, Teeto
Estonia	September	1	Ülar, Ülari, Ülev, Üllar, Üllart, Üllas, Üllo, Ülo
Finland	September	10	Kaleva, Kalevi
Finland	September	16	Hellevi, Hilla, Hille, Hillevi
Denmark	October	2	Ditlev
Slovakia	October	2	Levoslav
Sweden	October	15	Hedvig, Hillevi
Estonia	November	11	Alev, Elev, Elvo
Bulgaria	December	15	Elevter, Elevteria, Svoboda

Lev Summary of Meaning and Vibe

In conclusion, Lev is a profoundly masculine name, globally recognized for its powerful translation meaning 'lion' and its straightforward Slavic origin. While maintaining a steady, albeit lower, presence in the USA, it brings an immediate sense of sophisticated strength and traditional elegance. The name's strong mood contrasts nicely with its concise, monosyllabic structure, ensuring it sounds timeless rather than overly antique. Culturally anchored by traditions like its name day celebration on February 19 in Ukraine, Lev is a choice rich in heritage and profound identity. This blend of classic history and commanding tone defines the enduring appeal of the name Lev.

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