Leonard: Meaning, origin and popularity
Pronounced LEN-erd · 2 syllables
Leonard means “lion; person”, from Germanic and French.
From Old French Leonard, name of a 6th century Frankish saint, from Old High German leo (“lion”) or Old High German liut (“person”) and hart (“hard”). As a surname, also used as an anglicisation of Irish O Leannain (Lennon).
- Meaning
- lion; person
- Origin
- Germanic, French
- Pronunciation
- LEN-erd
- US rank (2025)
- #637
- US babies a year
- about 416 (2021–2025)
- Peak
- around 1920
- Style
- Vintage, Classic
- Nicknames
- Lenny, Leo
How popular is Leonard?
Leonard was the #637 name in the US in 2025, given to 438 babies. Its use has been fairly steady over the last decade. It peaked around 1920.
Around the world
| Country | Rank |
|---|---|
| United States | #637 |
| England & Wales | #228 |
| Scotland | #426 |
| Ireland | #263 |
| France | #125 |
| Norway | #173 |
| Canada | #130 |
| Australia | #454 |
How old are people named Leonard?
Half of US adults named Leonard are older than 66; most are between 31 and 87. (Estimated from US births by year and life tables.)
Names like Leonard
Chosen by the same families or with a similar style and era.
On these lists
Questions about Leonard
What does the name Leonard mean?
Leonard means “lion; person”. It comes from Germanic and French.
How do you pronounce Leonard?
Leonard is pronounced LEN-erd.
How popular is the name Leonard?
Leonard was the #637 name in the US in 2025, given to 438 babies. Its use has been fairly steady over the last decade. It peaked around 1920.
How old are people named Leonard?
Half of US adults named Leonard are older than 66. Most are between 31 and 87.