Lee
Meaning: Meadow, clearing, wood
Origin: Old English
Gender: Unisex
Rank in Australia: #184
Total births: 2,698
History: Lee peaked in the 1970s as a unisex name in Australia. The name's simplicity is its strength — three letters, one syllable. Lee represents the Australian love of brevity — say it quick, no fuss.
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Look at the data
Every number here comes directly from Australia’s birth records. No estimates, no averages — just the counts.
| Current rank (1985) | #84 |
| Babies named Lee in 1985 | 86 |
| Total recorded in Australia | 2,698 |
| Peak year | 1980 (149 babies) |
| Highest rank ever | #56 |
| Years in records | 1956–1985 (26 years of data) |
| Change over last 5 years | ↓ 28 spots |
| Gender breakdown | 72% boys / 28% girls |
Frequently asked about Lee
What does the name Lee mean?
Lee means “Meadow, clearing, wood” from Old English roots.
What is the origin of the name Lee?
Lee has Old English origin. The traditional meaning is “Meadow, clearing, wood”.
How popular is Lee in Australia?
Lee ranked #84 in Australia in 1985 — given to 86 babies that year.
When was Lee most popular?
Lee peaked in 1980 with 149 babies registered that year in Australia.
Is Lee a boy or girl name?
Lee is used for both boys and girls. In the records, about 72% of Lees are boys and 28% are girls.
Is the name Lee rising or falling in popularity?
Lee has fallen 28 spots in the rankings over the last 5 years in Australia — from #56 in 1980 to #84 in 1985.
How long has Lee been recorded in Australia?
Lee appears in birth records in Australia across 26 years — from 1956 through 1985.