You may be losing now, but the only way to stay ahead is to work for it!!
Yes, it's Lee-AH-nee, like Johnny. Liane Hansen of NPR is my nemesis, as she pronounces it Lee-Ann. I don't like that because it sounds like Betty Sue, Lou Ann, one of those old fashioned names. I also don't like Leone, Naomi, Elaine, Diane, Lalona, Lalini, Lay On Me, Lala, Lee, Lunar Module, Loony, and all the other things I've been called.
No it's not Hawaiian, either. It turns out to be short for Liana, the woody vine that Tarzan swings on. You know I was thrilled when I found that out. It may also be derived from Juliana. The variation Liane seems to be French.
So, you're on my mother's side are you! Them's fighting words. I just got a Jolly Roger Pirate shower cap for Christmas and I'm ready for you. I'm not kidding about that. I really do wear it in the shower. Here it is. Be very afraid.
http://www.mcphee.com/tiki/current/11249.html