What does Leander mean and where does it come from?
Leander (Λεander) is a name of Greek origin typically associated with the legend of Leander and Hero, which illustrates themes of love and tragedy. While traditionally used as a male name, it has gained popularity as a female name in recent times. The name emphasizes virtues of bravery and strength,
Cultural significance
Leander has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greek-speaking communities, where it reflects values of lion-man.
Peak popularity
Reached #1463 in 2025 — currently #1463 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greek-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How popular is Leander right now?
Rising fast — up 295 spots — currently #1463 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #1463 | 122 | ▲ up 295 · +30% births |
| 2024 | #1758 | 94 | ▼ down 364 · -88% births |
| 2023 | #1394 | 806 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2022 | #1399 | 786 | ▲ up 5 · +4% births |
| 2021 | #1404 | 756 | — |
The story of Leander
Leander entered American naming records in 1919 and has been in use for over 105 years. With 6,405 total births recorded, Leander remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1404 in 2021 to #1394 in 2023. Leander is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside Leander in 2025:
Leander by decade
Leander peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 168 | |
| 1890s | 121 | |
| 1900s | 135 | |
| 1910s | 588 | |
| 1920s ★ | 800 | |
| 1930s | 528 | |
| 1940s | 479 | |
| 1950s | 607 | |
| 1960s | 576 | |
| 1970s | 505 | |
| 1980s | 409 | |
| 1990s | 336 | |
| 2000s | 403 | |
| 2010s | 661 | |
| 2020s | 305 | |
💎With 6,405 total births, Leander is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Leander?
Famous people named Leander
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Leander (ancient philosopher)
Leander bore this name in classical Greece, where it was associated with wisdom and learning.
L(
Leander (modern Greek athlete)
Leander brought this name to international sporting recognition representing Greece.
L(
Leander (Greek poet or artist)
Leander helped establish this as a name of cultural and artistic prestige in the Hellenic world.
L(
Leander (modern Greek athlete)
Leander brought this name to international sporting recognition representing Greece.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2025
Explore →How is Leander written in other languages?
What are the girl versions of Leander?
Common questions about the name Leander
What does the name Leander mean?
Leander means "Lion-man" — a name rooted in Greek tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Leander?
Leander is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Leander?
Leander originates from Greek tradition. Greek names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Leander?
Leander is a three-syllable name pronounced lee-AND-er. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Leander?
Leander pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Greek heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.