Leo
Lion — a boy name of Latin origin
Popularity of Leo in the United States
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Meaning & Origin of Leo
Leo comes directly from the Latin word for "lion" and has been used as a given name since antiquity. It was borne by thirteen popes, including Leo the Great, who persuaded Attila the Hun to withdraw from Italy in the 5th century. The name is also associated with the zodiac sign Leo, symbolizing courage, leadership, and warmth. In recent years, Leo has climbed rapidly in popularity charts worldwide, prized for its bold meaning, brevity, and easy pronunciation across multiple languages. It carries a sense of strength and regality without being overly formal.
Leo Around the World
Leo is used in 5 languages worldwide, with 15+ international variants.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
Nicknames for Leo
Famous People Named Leo
- Leonardo da Vinci — Italian Renaissance polymath and artist
- Leo Tolstoy — Russian author of War and Peace
- Leonardo DiCaprio — American Academy Award-winning actor
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Sibling Name Ideas for Leo
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Leo mean?
Leo is a boy name of Latin origin meaning "Lion." Leo comes directly from the Latin word for "lion" and has been used as a given name since antiquity. It was borne by thirteen popes, including Leo the Great, who persuaded Attila the Hun to withdraw from Italy in the 5th century.
How do you pronounce Leo?
Leo is pronounced LEE-oh. Common variations include Leon, Leonardo, Leopold.
Is Leo a boy name?
Yes, Leo is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Lee.
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