Leni

Leni is a feminine given name used in German-speaking countries and beyond. It is often a diminutive of longer names such as Helena/Helene, Leonie, or Magdalena, but it is also widely used as a standalone given name.

It has become more common in recent decades in Germany and Austria, and has spread to other parts of Europe and North America because of its concise, modern sound and ease of pronunciation. The name’s popularity varies by culture and time, and it is used for all genders in some contexts as a nickname, though it remains primarily feminine in most usage.

Notable people with the name include Leni Riefenstahl (1902–2003), the German filmmaker and actress; Leni Stern (born 1952), American guitarist and composer; and Maria Leonor "Leni" Robredo (born 1963), Filipino lawyer and former vice president. The name has also appeared in various works of fiction and public life, contributing to its recognition as a simple, versatile choice in many languages.