Leonard is a moderately popular boys' name in England & Wales, ranking #249 in 2025 with 187 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2019 with 235 births ranking #217. Since 1996, the popularity has increased by 379.5%. In 2025, approximately 1 in every 1,454 boys born was named Leonard. STABLE Recent data shows the name is currently stable.
Leonard is a strong old Germanic name meaning "lion-hearted" or "brave as a lion". It has a long, steady history and a solid, dependable feel.
The name spread across Europe through saints and noble use and later remained familiar in English. Its modern appeal is often softened through shorter forms like Leo, Lennie, or Lenny.