Sophia Rodriguez

By Sophia Rodriguez
Cultural Naming Expert

Updated on September 03, 2024

Harleigh

US Popularity Rank: 2379

Origin: British

Meaning: Hare meadow; Rock meadow; Dweller at the hares' wood

Harleigh is a gender-neutral name of British origin. It derives from the Old English words hara and leah, meaning “rock” or “hare” and “clearing,” respectively. These translations culminate into various definitions, such as “hare meadow,” “rock meadow,“ and “dwellers at the hares' wood.” Harleigh is an alternate spelling of the more common Harley. While both were originally given to baby boys, their association with DC’s supervillain—and later antihero—Harley Quinn has made them more popular as girls’ names. Notably, Harley Quinn isn’t a reference to the Old English name but a pun on harlequin, the stock jester character from 17th-century Italian comedies. However, the coincidence will surely resonate with baby Harleigh, who will enjoy sharing a name with such a complex, dynamic, and intelligent female character.