The name Leonidas is a boy's name of Greek origin meaning "lion". Leonidas is ranked #497 on our popularity charts and is often added to lists like Unique Baby Names: Unusual and Rare and discussed in our forums with posts like "Names on NB that make you go WOW!".
From the experts:
Leonidas is an ancient name that has started rising again along with centuries-old names such as Augustus and Cato. The original Leonidas was the most famous of Sparta's warriors, sacrificing his life at the Battle of Thermopylae; there is also a saint Leonidas. More stately than Leon, more melodious than Leonard, Leonidas is a leonine name that commands respect. In Portuguese, Spanish, and French, the name is pronounced lee-OH-nee-dus, but Americans tend to say lee-oh-NYE-dus.
Leonidas in Blog Posts
Leonidas in the Forums
Comments
Rebecca Maracle Says:
autumnreverie Says:
It's also my favorite Leo name.
Theodora_Phoenix Says:
I have recently fallen in love with this name! Kind of disappointed that it's in the top 1000, even at a lower rank.
EleanorAll1 Says:
I would just be cautious about this one because it sounds kind of like a disease to me--Leonitis, like bronchitis.
headintheclouds Says:
Leonidas is really grand and elaborate, is almost over-the-top really, but I love it! The nickname Leo makes it accessible, and its full form is just strong and handsome and great. It's my favorite Leo- name variant for a boy.
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I like it, but I'm not sure I'd have the guts to use it IRL. I like the nickname Nye for it.