Leonard as a Baby Name. Meaning and Origin of Leonard

What is the meaning of the name Leonard ?

The baby name Leonard is a boy name 2 syllables long and is pronounced LEN-erd.

Leonard is German in Origin.

Leonard is a name of English and German origin, meaning "brave lion". It is derived from the Old High German name Leonhard, which was composed of the elements "leo" meaning "lion" and "hard" meaning "brave, hardy". The name was introduced to England by the Normans in the 11th century and has been in use ever since. It was particularly popular in the Middle Ages, and has been borne by many saints and martyrs.

The name Leonard is typically masculine, although it has occasionally been used for girls in recent years. It is pronounced LEE-uh-nard in English, with the stress on the first syllable. The name has been used by many notable figures throughout history, including the composer Leonard Bernstein, the actor Leonard Nimoy, and the philosopher Leonard Peikoff.

The name Leonard is composed of two elements, "leo" and "hard", both of which have strong and positive connotations. The lion has long been a symbol of strength and courage, while "hard" suggests resilience and determination. As such, the name Leonard has a powerful and noble quality that has made it a popular choice for parents throughout the centuries.