Bright, shining light
Leni is primarily a German diminutive of Helene or Magdalena. It carries the same 'shining light' or 'torch' meaning as Helen, or refers to the biblical Mary Magdalene. In recent years, it has gained independence as a chic, minimalist standalone name.
Less common today
Leni isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #1,174 in 2025.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
German-American model and daughter of Heidi Klum
German film director and photographer
The second-oldest child in the Loud family · The Loud House
