Leo

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Leo

Gender Boy
Origin Italian
Letters 3
Syllables 1
Pronunciation LEE-oh

Leo, which has 3 letters and 1 syllable, is a male name of Italian origin.

Meaning of Leo

A lion

Leo is a Latin name derived from the Greek word for lion, leon. It is typically used as a masculine name, and can also be interpreted to mean "brave," "strong," or "lion-hearted."

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Meaning A lion
Origin Italian
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #24 in 2024 Steady
Rarity (US) Popular (Top 50)
Era Modern (peaked 2023)

Background & History of The Name Leo

In Latin, the name Leo means "lion". It is derived from the Greek word "leōn", which also translates to "lion". The name Leo has a long history and is most commonly associated with the constellation Leo, the zodiac sign represented by a lion. People born under this sign are believed to possess characteristics such as strength, courage, and leadership. The symbol of the lion has been used in various cultures throughout history to represent these attributes.

The popularity of the name Leo has fluctuated over the years. In ancient Rome, it was a common name given to both boys and girls. It gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in English-speaking countries, following the rise in prominence of British royal names. Notable bearers of the name include Leo Tolstoy, the famous Russian writer, and Leonardo da Vinci, the renowned Italian artist and inventor.

Leo has also been used as a given name in various forms and spellings in different cultures. In Spanish-speaking countries, it is often seen as a shortened version of Leonardo or Leonel. In Italian, it is the diminutive form of names like Leopoldo or Leonardo. In recent years, the name Leo has experienced a resurgence in popularity, ranking among the top 100 names for boys in many countries around the world.

Leo is a name that carries strong and positive connotations due to its association with the king of the jungle. It is often chosen by parents who want their child to be courageous, noble, and influential. With its rich history and diverse usage, the name Leo continues to be a popular choice for many families today.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Leo over the years.

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