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Name meaning & originLech

/LEKH/

PolishBoy
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Lech is a Polish boy's name pronounced /LEKH/. The name of the legendary founder of Poland, representing the spirit of the Polish people.

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Meaning of Lech

The name of the legendary founder of Poland, representing the spirit of the Polish people.

Lech is an Old Polish name derived from the word 'Lach', which was the name used by East Slavs to describe the West Slavic tribes. According to legend, Lech was the founding father of the Polish people who established the nation after seeing a white eagle nesting against a red sunset.

Origin
Polish
Pronunciation
/LEKH/

Cultural background

The name is a quintessential Polish patriotic symbol, though its popularity as a given name has fluctuated in modern times. It is almost exclusively used within Poland or among the Polish diaspora.

Variations & nicknames

  • Leszek
  • Lestko
  • Leszko
  • Lecho

Famous people named Lech

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Lech Wałęsa

    Nobel Peace Prize laureate and former President of Poland who co-founded Solidarity.

    Politics · 1980s–present

  • Lech Kaczyński

    Former President of Poland who served from 2005 until his death in 2010.

    Politics · 2000s

  • Lech Majewski

    Acclaimed Polish film and theatre director, writer, and painter.

    Film · 1980s–present

  • Lech Janerka

    Influential Polish rock musician, composer, and bassist.

    Music · 1970s–present

  • Lech Piasecki

    Former professional road racing cyclist and world champion.

    Sport · 1980s

Frequently asked about Lech

What does Lech mean?
Lech is a legendary name referring to the forefather of the Poles; it is etymologically linked to 'Lach', an old term for the Polish people.
How do you pronounce Lech?
It is pronounced 'Lekh', where the 'ch' sounds like the 'ch' in the Scottish word 'loch' or the German 'Bach'.
Is Lech a boy or girl name?
Lech is strictly a masculine (boy) name in Polish culture.
When is the name day for Lech?
In Poland, the most common name day (imieniny) for Lech is celebrated on August 12th.

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