What does Leon mean and where does it come from?
The name Leon originates from the Greek word 'leon' (λέων), meaning 'lion,' symbolizing strength and bravery. Leon is primarily recognized as a masculine name but can be used as a feminine name in a modern context. Its popularity spans across various countries including Greece, France, Spain, and th
Cultural significance
Leon has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greece-speaking communities, where it reflects values of meaning 'lion'.
Peak popularity
Reached #1056 in 1908 — currently #148 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greece-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Leon?
Leon works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Leon Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Leon Rose
Floral · soft ending
Leon Claire
French influence · crisp
Leon Jane
Literary · strong
Leon Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Leon right now?
Rising — up 10 spots — currently #148 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #148 | 2,456 | ▲ up 10 · +3% births |
| 2022 | #158 | 2,373 | ▲ up 19 · +8% births |
| 2021 | #177 | 2,198 | ▲ up 13163 · +36533% births |
| 2020 | #13340 | 6 | ▼ down 5000 · -14% births |
| 1985 | #8340 | 7 | ▼ down 3353 · -50% births |
| 1980 | #4987 | 14 | ▲ up 540 · +40% births |
| 1975 | #5527 | 10 | ▼ down 458 |
| 1970 | #5069 | 10 | ▼ down 556 · +11% births |
| 1965 | #4513 | 9 | ▼ down 1684 · -53% births |
| 1960 | #2829 | 19 | ▼ down 90 · +12% births |
| 1955 | #2739 | 17 | ▲ up 53 · +21% births |
| 1950 | #2792 | 14 | ▼ down 36 · +27% births |
| 1945 | #2756 | 11 | ▼ down 438 · -15% births |
| 1940 | #2318 | 13 | stable |
| 1935 | #2318 | 13 | — |
The story of Leon
Leon has been a beloved American name for over 133 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1891. More than 171,812 babies have been named Leon since 1891. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1250 in 1900 to #148 in 2023. Leon is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Names that peaked alongside Leon in 1908:
Leon by decade
Leon peaked in the 1900s. See all 1900s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 1,475 | |
| 1890s | 2,149 | |
| 1900s | 2,942 | |
| 1910s | 15,506 | |
| 1920s ★ | 25,891 | |
| 1930s | 23,190 | |
| 1940s | 23,691 | |
| 1950s | 21,471 | |
| 1960s | 13,951 | |
| 1970s | 9,975 | |
| 1980s | 7,697 | |
| 1990s | 5,186 | |
| 2000s | 5,052 | |
| 2010s | 11,722 | |
| 2020s | 1,914 | |
What are good nicknames for Leon?
ENGLISH
LeolaLeonaLeoneLeontyne
What names sound and feel like Leon?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Leon also consider these
How is Leon written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Leon
What does the name Leon mean?
Leon means "Meaning 'lion'" — a name rooted in Greece 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 Leon?
Leon is currently ranked #148 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Leon have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Leon?
Leon originates from Greece tradition. Greece 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 Leon?
Leon is a two-syllable name pronounced L IY1 AA0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Leon trending right now?
Leon is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.