Leonard is a distinctive boys' name in United States, ranking #517 in 2001 with 436 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 1996 with 547 births ranking #415. Since 1996, the popularity has decreased by 20.3%. In 2001, approximately 1 in every 4,456 boys born was named Leonard. RISING Recent data shows the name is currently rising.
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.