Leonard

Patronymic

Meaning

Brave as a lion, derived from Germanic elements meaning 'lion' and 'brave' or 'strong'.

Etymology

Composed of the Old High German elements 'leo' (lion) and 'hard' (brave or strong). The name was popularized by Saint Leonard and subsequently became used as both a given name and surname.

About the Leonard Surname

Leonard functions as both a given name and surname, particularly in Germanic and Romance-speaking regions. As a surname, it typically indicates descent from someone named Leonard.

Distribution

Found in Germanic-speaking regions, France, Italy, and areas of European settlement.

Notable Bearers

Sugar Ray Leonard, Robert Langdon (fictional character)

People with the Leonard Surname