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Leo Boy

Popularity: #24 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

PronunciationLEE-oh / ˈliː.oʊ

Latin; Greek

Meaning

Latin: lion; Greek: brave

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Leo has its roots in the Latin word "leo," which translates to "lion." This Latin term is derived from the Greek word "leōn," which also means "lion." The use of the name in the context of a personal name can be traced back to early Christian times, where it became associated with strength and bravery, qualities attributed to the lion. The name entered the English language through the Old French form "Leu," which was used in medieval times, particularly in the context of the Christian tradition.

Historically, the name Leo has been borne by several notable figures, including a number of popes, with Pope Leo I (circa 400–461) being one of the most significant. He is known for his theological contributions and for asserting the authority of the papacy. The name also appears in various historical texts and translations, including the Vulgate, the Latin version of the Bible, where it was used to denote strength and leadership. The name gained further prominence through the Renaissance, a period marked by a revival of classical learning and values, during which the lion was often used as a symbol of nobility and courage.

Culturally, the lion has been a powerful symbol across various civilizations, representing majesty, valor, and protection. In heraldry, lions are frequently depicted on coats of arms, emphasizing their association with royalty and strength. The name Leo, therefore, carries with it a rich tapestry of historical and cultural significance, embodying ideals of bravery and leadership. Additionally, diminutive forms such as Leon or Leo's feminine counterpart, Leonie, have also emerged, further enriching the name's legacy throughout history.

Trend Summary

The name Leo has seen a steady increase in popularity in the United States over the past two decades.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Leon
  • Leonard

International Variants

  • León (Spanish)
  • Léo (French)
  • Leo (Italian)
  • Lev (Russian)

Famous people named Leo

Leo Messi is a professional footballer best known for his time at FC Barcelona, winning multiple Ballon d'Or awards and the FIFA World Cup.

Leo Tolstoy is an author best known for War and Peace and Anna Karenina.

Leo Fender is a businessman and inventor best known for founding Fender Musical Instruments Corporation and creating the Stratocaster guitar.

Leo Burnett is an advertising executive best known for founding Leo Burnett Worldwide and creating iconic campaigns for brands like Marlboro and Tony the Tiger.

Fictional characters named Leo

Leo is a fictional character from the animated film The Lion King. He is a young lion who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and responsibility as he learns to embrace his role as king.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Leo was first seen in the United States in 1880. Leo has ranked as high as #32 nationally, which occurred in 2022, and has been most popular in California, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, and Massachusetts. In the past 5 years the name Leo has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Leo (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 1,096
15%
TX 660
9%
NY 556
8%
FL 490
7%
PA 312
4%
OH 305
4%
IL 294
4%
MI 213
3%
MA 207
3%
WA 197
3%
NC 196
3%
AZ 194
3%
VA 189
3%
WI 184
3%
GA 182
2%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
1880147
1881122
1882146
1883142
1884192
1885199
1886240
1887232
1888353
1889325
1890393
1891353
1892444
1893448
1894515
1895509
1896497
1897462
1898588
1899482
1900570
1901456
1902551
1903636
1904552
1905512
1906508
1907651
1908584
1909609
1910707
1911844
19121,654
19132,031
19142,655
19153,527
19163,621
19173,779
19184,036
19193,802
19204,054
19214,066
19223,901
19233,973
19243,990
19253,775
19263,552
19273,536
19283,095
19293,018
19303,035
19312,700
19322,500
19332,352
19342,309
19352,142
19362,017
19372,015
19381,952
19391,842
19401,753
19411,725
19421,800
19431,694
19441,592
19451,582
19461,647
19471,805
19481,718
19491,646
19501,554
19511,658
19521,558
19531,657
19541,613
19551,576
19561,550
19571,511
19581,428
19591,432
19601,203
19611,178
19621,101
19631,015
19641,027
1965902
1966856
1967767
1968695
1969741
1970702
1971651
1972550
1973509
1974511
1975516
1976481
1977484
1978478
1979483
1980473
1981534
1982483
1983429
1984430
1985447
1986415
1987452
1988451
1989428
1990431
1991506
1992469
1993456
1994474
1995446
1996447
1997458
1998527
1999524
2000658
2001736
2002809
20031,095
20041,239
20051,275
20061,501
20071,531
20081,628
20091,802
20101,946
20112,250
20122,879
20133,510
20143,976
20154,602
20165,299
20175,965
20186,772
20197,501
20207,222
20217,802
20228,290
20238,152
20247,793