lâleh: a female name of Old Persian origin meaning "This name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “lâleh > lale”, meaning “tulip lale”".It derives from the Old Persian word "lâleh > lale".
In Old Persian tradition, lâleh holds special significance as a feminine name representing This name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “lâleh > lale”, meaning “tulip lale”. This name has been cherished across generations, carrying with it the wisdom and heritage of Old Persian culture. Its enduring popularity speaks to its universal resonance.
Quick Facts About lâleh
Quick facts about lâleh
Origin
Old Persian
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “lâleh > lale”, meaning “tulip lale”. Cultivation of the tulip began in Persia, probably in the 10th century. Early cultivars must have emerged from hybridisation in gardens from wild collected plants, which were then favoured, possibly due to flower size or growth vigour. During the Ottoman Empire, numerous tulips were cultivated and bred. Tulips are mentioned by Omar Kayam and Celaleddin Rûmi. In 1574, Sultan Selim II. ordered the Kadi of A‘azāz in Syria to send him 50.000 tulip bulbs. However, Harvey points out several problems with this source, and there is also the possibility that tulips and hyacinth (sümbüll, originally Indian spikenard (Nardostachys jatamansi) have been confused.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
lâleh > lale
Other Scripts
Persian (Fārsi) (لاله)
How to Pronounce lâleh
lâleh is pronounced /ˈlɑː.leɪ/
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: lâl-eh
Say it like: "LÂL-EH"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
lâleh is predominantly used in iranian speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
iranian
Frequently Asked Questions About lâleh
What does the name lâleh mean?
lâleh means "This name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “lâleh > lale”, meaning “tulip lale”. Cultivation of the tulip began in Persia, probably in the 10th century. Early cultivars must have emerged from hybridisation in gardens from wild collected plants, which were then favoured, possibly due to flower size or growth vigour. During the Ottoman Empire, numerous tulips were cultivated and bred. Tulips are mentioned by Omar Kayam and Celaleddin Rûmi. In 1574, Sultan Selim II. ordered the Kadi of A‘azāz in Syria to send him 50.000 tulip bulbs. However, Harvey points out several problems with this source, and there is also the possibility that tulips and hyacinth (sümbüll, originally Indian spikenard (Nardostachys jatamansi) have been confused.". The name comes from lâleh > lale. In its original form, the name derives from lâleh (لاله). This old persian name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose lâleh for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “lâleh > lale”, meaning “tulip lale”. Cultivation of the tulip began in Persia, probably in the 10th century. Early cultivars must have emerged from hybridisation in gardens from wild collected plants, which were then favoured, possibly due to flower size or growth vigour. During the Ottoman Empire, numerous tulips were cultivated and bred. Tulips are mentioned by Omar Kayam and Celaleddin Rûmi. In 1574, Sultan Selim II. ordered the Kadi of A‘azāz in Syria to send him 50.000 tulip bulbs. However, Harvey points out several problems with this source, and there is also the possibility that tulips and hyacinth (sümbüll, originally Indian spikenard (Nardostachys jatamansi) have been confused." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, lâleh's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like FLOWERS, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name lâleh?
lâleh is a old persian name. The name traces back to lâleh > lale. The original form lâleh (لاله) shows the name's roots in its native language. In its native script, lâleh is written as Persian (Fārsi) (لاله). The name remains closely tied to iranian naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The old persian meaning "This name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “lâleh > lale”, meaning “tulip lale”. Cultivation of the tulip began in Persia, probably in the 10th century. Early cultivars must have emerged from hybridisation in gardens from wild collected plants, which were then favoured, possibly due to flower size or growth vigour. During the Ottoman Empire, numerous tulips were cultivated and bred. Tulips are mentioned by Omar Kayam and Celaleddin Rûmi. In 1574, Sultan Selim II. ordered the Kadi of A‘azāz in Syria to send him 50.000 tulip bulbs. However, Harvey points out several problems with this source, and there is also the possibility that tulips and hyacinth (sümbüll, originally Indian spikenard (Nardostachys jatamansi) have been confused." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is lâleh a boy or girl name?
lâleh is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In old persian tradition, lâleh has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “lâleh > lale”, meaning “tulip lale”. Cultivation of the tulip began in Persia, probably in the 10th century. Early cultivars must have emerged from hybridisation in gardens from wild collected plants, which were then favoured, possibly due to flower size or growth vigour. During the Ottoman Empire, numerous tulips were cultivated and bred. Tulips are mentioned by Omar Kayam and Celaleddin Rûmi. In 1574, Sultan Selim II. ordered the Kadi of A‘azāz in Syria to send him 50.000 tulip bulbs. However, Harvey points out several problems with this source, and there is also the possibility that tulips and hyacinth (sümbüll, originally Indian spikenard (Nardostachys jatamansi) have been confused." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce lâleh?
lâleh is pronounced "/ˈlɑː.leɪ/". This pronunciation follows pe language patterns. In its original script, the name appears as Persian (Fārsi) (لاله), which helps explain how native speakers pronounce it. As a single-syllable name, lâleh is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with old persian names, listening to a native speaker say lâleh can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root lâleh > lale influences how lâleh sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name lâleh?
lâleh is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, lâleh offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. lâleh's popularity may vary between old persian communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “lâleh > lale”, meaning “tulip lale”. Cultivation of the tulip began in Persia, probably in the 10th century. Early cultivars must have emerged from hybridisation in gardens from wild collected plants, which were then favoured, possibly due to flower size or growth vigour. During the Ottoman Empire, numerous tulips were cultivated and bred. Tulips are mentioned by Omar Kayam and Celaleddin Rûmi. In 1574, Sultan Selim II. ordered the Kadi of A‘azāz in Syria to send him 50.000 tulip bulbs. However, Harvey points out several problems with this source, and there is also the possibility that tulips and hyacinth (sümbüll, originally Indian spikenard (Nardostachys jatamansi) have been confused." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, lâleh holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name lâleh commonly used?
lâleh is used primarily in iranian naming traditions. Though old persian in origin, lâleh found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “lâleh > lale”, meaning “tulip lale”. Cultivation of the tulip began in Persia, probably in the 10th century. Early cultivars must have emerged from hybridisation in gardens from wild collected plants, which were then favoured, possibly due to flower size or growth vigour. During the Ottoman Empire, numerous tulips were cultivated and bred. Tulips are mentioned by Omar Kayam and Celaleddin Rûmi. In 1574, Sultan Selim II. ordered the Kadi of A‘azāz in Syria to send him 50.000 tulip bulbs. However, Harvey points out several problems with this source, and there is also the possibility that tulips and hyacinth (sümbüll, originally Indian spikenard (Nardostachys jatamansi) have been confused." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted lâleh into their naming traditions. A child named lâleh will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, lâleh is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of lâleh?
lâleh carries associations with FLOWERS. These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “lâleh > lale”, meaning “tulip lale”. Cultivation of the tulip began in Persia, probably in the 10th century. Early cultivars must have emerged from hybridisation in gardens from wild collected plants, which were then favoured, possibly due to flower size or growth vigour. During the Ottoman Empire, numerous tulips were cultivated and bred. Tulips are mentioned by Omar Kayam and Celaleddin Rûmi. In 1574, Sultan Selim II. ordered the Kadi of A‘azāz in Syria to send him 50.000 tulip bulbs. However, Harvey points out several problems with this source, and there is also the possibility that tulips and hyacinth (sümbüll, originally Indian spikenard (Nardostachys jatamansi) have been confused." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In old persian culture, where lâleh originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing lâleh sets certain expectations. Parents choosing lâleh often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In iranian communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.