What does Leola mean and where does it come from?
The name Leola is a feminine variant of Leo, derived from the Latin word 'leo', meaning 'lion'. It gained popularity in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Leola might also be considered a blend of names like Lela and Ella. Notable figures with this name include Leola Ki
Cultural significance
Leola has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of loyal.
Peak popularity
Reached #166 in 1905 — currently #6711 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Leola?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Leola?
Leola works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Leola Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Leola Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Leola Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Leola Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Leola Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
Leola Brynn
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Leola right now?
Falling — down 413 spots — currently #6711 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #6711 | 17 | ▼ down 413 · -11% births |
| 2024 | #6298 | 19 | ▼ down 4931 · -98% births |
| 2023 | #1367 | 833 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1372 | 813 | ▲ up 5 · +4% births |
| 2021 | #1377 | 783 | ▲ up 4248 · +3629% births |
| 2020 | #5625 | 21 | ▲ up 1335 · +24% births |
| 2015 | #6960 | 17 | ▲ up 2262 · +42% births |
| 2010 | #9222 | 12 | ▲ up 2613 · +50% births |
| 2005 | #11835 | 8 | ▼ down 1961 · -11% births |
| 2000 | #9874 | 9 | ▼ down 3613 · -36% births |
| 1995 | #6261 | 14 | ▼ down 1736 · -33% births |
| 1990 | #4525 | 21 | ▲ up 112 · +31% births |
| 1985 | #4637 | 16 | ▼ down 2146 · -58% births |
| 1980 | #2491 | 38 | ▼ down 35 · +19% births |
| 1975 | #2456 | 32 | — |
The story of Leola
Leola has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. A total of 28,063 babies have received this name. Once ranked #331 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1367 in 2023. Leola is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Leola in 1905:
Leola by decade
Leola peaked in the 1900s. See all 1900s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 531 | |
| 1890s | 1,255 | |
| 1900s | 2,615 | |
| 1910s | 6,148 | |
| 1920s ★ | 7,097 | |
| 1930s | 4,235 | |
| 1940s | 2,693 | |
| 1950s | 1,741 | |
| 1960s | 729 | |
| 1970s | 372 | |
| 1980s | 224 | |
| 1990s | 105 | |
| 2000s | 116 | |
| 2010s | 181 | |
| 2020s | 57 | |
What are good nicknames for Leola?
What names sound and feel like Leola?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Leola also consider these
How is Leola written in other languages?
What are the boy versions of Leola?
Common questions about the name Leola
What does the name Leola mean?
Leola means "Loyal" — a name rooted in American 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 Leola?
Leola 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 Leola?
Leola originates from American tradition. American 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 Leola?
Leola is a two-syllable name pronounced LEL-uh. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Leola a common or rare name?
Leola is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.