Leonidas

Lion-like — a boy name of Greek origin

GenderBoy
OriginGreek
MeaningLion-like
Pronunciationlee-ON-ih-dus

Popularity of Leonidas in the United States

#510Rank in 2025
591Births in 2025
#421 in 2022Peak Popularity
↓ Declining10-Year Trend

Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.

Meaning & Origin of Leonidas

Leonidas is a heroic Greek name from "leon," meaning "lion," and so is understood as "lion-like" or "son of the lion." It belonged to the legendary Spartan king who made his last stand with 300 warriors at Thermopylae, making the name a byword for courage and defiance. Grand and commanding, it comes with the wonderfully usable nickname Leo, letting it swing from mighty to friendly in a heartbeat. Leonidas fits the taste for strong classical names like Maximus, Atlas, and Alexander. For parents who want a name with epic weight, a warrior's spirit, and an easy short form, Leonidas roars.

Leonidas Around the World

Leonidas is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 2+ international variants. From the Greek "leon" (lion), meaning "lion-like"; borne by the Spartan king Leonidas..

Languages
Greek
Details

TypeMale given name

International Variants
LeonidaItalian
Leonidis

Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.

Nicknames for Leonidas

LeoLeonLenny

Famous People Named Leonidas

  • Leonidas I — king of Sparta who died at the Battle of Thermopylae

Similar Names to Leonidas

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Sibling Name Ideas for Leonidas

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Leonidas mean?

Leonidas is a boy name of Greek origin meaning "Lion-like." Leonidas is a heroic Greek name from "leon," meaning "lion," and so is understood as "lion-like" or "son of the lion." It belonged to the legendary Spartan king who made his last stand with 300 warriors at Thermopylae, making the name a byword for courage and defiance.

How do you pronounce Leonidas?

Leonidas is pronounced lee-ON-ih-dus. Common variations include Leonida, Leonidis.

Is Leonidas a boy name?

Yes, Leonidas is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Leo, Leon, Lenny.

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