Leonidas
Meaning of Leonidas
Leonidas is a strong and timeless name for boys, with deep historical and cultural roots. Originating from ancient Greece, Leonidas means "lion-like" or "son of the lion," reflecting strength and bravery. The name is famously associated with Leonidas I, the heroic King of Sparta who led his 300 warriors against the vast Persian army at the Battle of Thermopylae. Pronounced lee-uh-NY-dus, this noble name has steadily grown in popularity in recent years in the United States, ranking 476th in 2023. Variations of the name include Leonid, which shares similar regal connotations. For parents seeking a name that embodies courage and leadership, Leonidas offers a powerful choice with a rich legacy.
Pronunciation
English
- Pronunced as lee-uh-NY-dus (/liːəˈnaɪdəs/)
U.S. Popularity Chart
States Popularity Chart
Notable People Named Leonidas
| Lieutenant-General Leonidas Polk was a bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Louisiana and a major-general in the Confederate States Army, known as "Sewanee's Fighting Bishop." |
| Leonidas Harris Berry was an American pioneer in gastroscopy and endoscopy, and served as the president of the National Medical Association from 1965 to 1966. |
| Leonidas Ralph Mecham served as the Director of the Administrative Office of the United States Courts from 1985 to 2006, appointed by Chief Justice Warren Burger. |
| Leonidas Hubbard Jr. (1872–1903) was an American journalist and adventurer known for his exploration of Labrador in Canada. |
| Segundo Leonidas Iza Salazar is an Ecuadorian activist and indigenous leader of Kichwa-Panzaleo ancestry, currently serving as the president of the Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador (CONAIE) and known for leading demonstrations against economic measures in 2019. |
| Leonidas of Rhodes, a renowned ancient Olympic runner, achieved the title "Triastes" for winning three foot races in four consecutive Olympiads and is considered one of the greatest sprinters in history. |
| Leonidas Eduardo Proaño Villalba, an Ecuadorian prelate and theologian, was the influential bishop of Riobamba from 1954 to 1985, known for his advocacy of liberation theology and his Nobel Peace Prize nomination. |
| Leonidas Andrianopoulos was a Greek footballer known for his role as a striker. |
| Leonidas Papagos was a prominent Greek general. |
| Leónidas Lamborghini (1927–2009) was a renowned Argentine writer and poet. |
