Leonard

ClassicScholarlyDistinguishedVintageStrong

Leonard is of German origin, derived from the elements 'leon' meaning 'lion' and 'hard' meaning 'brave' or 'strong,' translating to 'brave as a lion' or 'lion-hearted.' It has been used across Europe since medieval times, particularly honoring Saint Leonard, the patron saint of prisoners.

Current Popularity

#637 for boys

in the United States (2025)

Projected 2026: #623, likely #546 to #700

↗Steady

Popularity over time

188019502020
Recent years · births per year

Dashed bar: 2026 (projected): 457. How this is calculated

Yearly values
  • 2011: 326
  • 2012: 338
  • 2013: 349
  • 2014: 385
  • 2015: 400
  • 2016: 450
  • 2017: 437
  • 2018: 417
  • 2019: 443
  • 2020: 421
  • 2021: 421
  • 2022: 373
  • 2023: 384
  • 2024: 409
  • 2025: 438
  • 2026 (projected): 457

Good to Know

Common nicknames: Leo, Lenny, Len, Lennie, Leni
  • •Easy to spell and pronounce in most languages
  • •Offers the popular modern nickname 'Leo' with vintage charm
  • •Strong historical and cultural significance across multiple fields
  • •Currently experiencing a revival as vintage names return to fashion

Famous People

L

Leonard Cohen

Singer-songwriter and poet

L

Leonard Nimoy

Actor, famous for Mr. Spock in Star Trek

L

Leonardo da Vinci

Renaissance artist and inventor

L

Leonard Bernstein

Composer and conductor

Statistics

294,334

Total births since 1880

1921

Peak year

Discovery

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