A 1880s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Leonie since 1880
Babies named Leonie per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2025, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Leonie's real moment was 1889.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 93 |
| 1890s | 147 |
| 1900s | 137 |
| 1910s | 193 |
| 1920s | 170 |
| 1930s | 89 |
| 1940s | 73 |
| 1950s | 73 |
| 1960s | 73 |
| 1970s | 58 |
| 1980s | 64 |
| 1990s | 75 |
| 2000s | 169 |
| 2010s | 436 |
| 2020s | 381 |
Meaning & origin
Leonie, a name meaning 'lioness', has a history of use in French and German cultures. First recorded in the U.S. in 1880, it reached its peak popularity in 1889. After declining, the name has been rising again since 1994. Today, it remains a relatively uncommon choice, with a current rank of 2276 in 2025, and a 1-in-20,091 birth rate. While it may not be ubiquitous, its revival suggests a growing appreciation for its feminine strength and European charm. Top states for Leonie include Massachusetts, California, and New York, indicating a concentration in culturally diverse or trend-setting areas.
Leonie is the feminine form of the Latin name Leonius, itself derived from Leo, meaning 'lion'. The name was used in medieval Europe and became particularly popular in French- and German-speaking regions. It has been in consistent use since the 19th century, experiencing revivals in various periods.
Where Leonie is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Leonie” around the world
Where Leonie lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
#29
in 2024
Quebec
#18
in 2025
Sources: INSEE (France) · Retraite Québec (Quebec).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Leo, Lee, Lia, Nini
Sibling names for Leonie
Names that share Leonie's style, for a brother or sister.
