Leo

What does Leo mean?

At its simplest, Leo means "lion". The name comes from the Latin word for the animal, so it carries the clear and direct image of strength and presence associated with lions.

As a given name, Leo has a compact, bold tone. It feels bright and confident without being showy, and it sits comfortably in both playful and refined settings. Parents often choose it for its clear sound, straightforward meaning, and friendly but assertive character. Related names you might see alongside it include Leon, Leonardo and Leona.

Historical Context

Leo is an ancient name with a long public life. It derives directly from the Latin word for lion and was used in the Roman world. The name gained further visibility in later centuries through its use by early Christian leaders and a line of medieval and Renaissance popes named Leo. That papal presence helped keep the name in circulation in various European countries.

Over time the form has appeared in many languages and local variants. In some places it evolved into longer forms such as Leon and Leonardo, while feminine forms like Leona also developed. In modern times Leo has enjoyed periodic revivals, helped by associations with the zodiac sign and by its short, punchy sound which suits contemporary preferences for concise names.

Popularity of Leo over time

In 2025, Leo was given to 3,278 boys in the UK and 8,173 boys in the US. Leo has risen sharply over the last 20 years, and is now a popular boys' name in both the UK and the US.

What do parents think of Leo?