📅 Since 1880🏆 64 years in top 1000.42% of births at peak
How to pronounce Leo
LEE·oh
/ˈliː.oʊ/ · stress on LEE · 2 syllables
“lion”
Latin origin · Boy name
What does Leo mean and where does it come from?
Leo is traditionally a male name derived from the Latin word 'leo', which means 'lion'. In a modern context, Leo has also been adopted as a female name, though less commonly. The name is prevalent in various cultures, including Italian, where it is seen as a diminutive of names like Leonora. Histori
Cultural significance
Leo has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Latin-speaking communities, where it reflects values of lion.
Holding steady — currently #18 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#18 · Top 0.01%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#18
8,152
▲ up 4 · -2% births
2022
#22
8,290
▲ up 9 · +6% births
2021
#31
7,802
▲ up 5 · +9% births
2020
#36
7,159
▲ up 55 · +56% births
2015
#91
4,594
▲ up 100 · +137% births
2010
#191
1,942
▲ up 68 · +53% births
2005
#259
1,272
▲ up 129 · +94% births
2000
#388
657
▲ up 97 · +47% births
1995
#485
446
▼ down 9 · +4% births
1990
#476
430
▼ down 72 · -4% births
1985
#404
447
▼ down 37 · -6% births
1980
#367
474
▼ down 31 · -8% births
1975
#336
516
▼ down 42 · -27% births
1970
#294
703
▼ down 47 · -22% births
1965
#247
904
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Leo
2023Rank #18
8,290
#175
↗Rising
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Leo
Leo has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #36 in 2020. More than 221,504 babies have been named Leo since 1880. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #92 in 1880 to #18 in 2023. Leo is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Leo means "lion" — a name rooted in Latin 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 Leo?
Leo is currently ranked #18 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Leo have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Leo?
Leo originates from Latin tradition. Latin 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 Leo?
Leo is a two-syllable name pronounced L IY1 OW0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Leo trending right now?
Leo is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.
Sibling names that pair with Leo
For a sister
Leo & Olivia♡
Leo & Ava♡
Leo & Violet♡
Leo & Aurora♡
For a brother
Leo & Ava♡
Leo & Sebastian♡
Leo & Nova♡
Leo & Anthony♡
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