MallowbyNames

Leonila

lee-oh-NEE-lah · Young lion

Peak popularity
1936
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Leonila since 1922

Babies named Leonila per year in U.S. Social Security records.

5101519602000Most births 1936Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1920s55
1930s64
1940s51
1950s33
1960s12
1970s24
1980s28
1990s24
2000s29
2010s9
2020s8

Meaning & origin

Leonila is a rare and delicate name that reached its height in the 1930s, with a peak year of 1936. Unlike many names from that era, Leonila has not seen a revival and remains uncommon, with no top states or recent rank. Its sound is reminiscent of other Spanish diminutive forms, and it offers a sweet alternative to the more common Leona. Parents today may be drawn to its vintage charm and lion meaning, though it remains a distinctive choice.

Leonila is a feminine given name derived from the Latin 'leo' meaning 'lion'. It is a diminutive form of Leona, with the suffix '-ila' giving a diminutive or affectionate connotation. The name has been used in Spanish and Italian-speaking countries, particularly in Catholic communities honoring saints or as a variant of Leonor.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Leo, Nila, Leni

Variants: Leonilda, Leontina, Leona

Sibling names for Leonila

Names that share Leonila's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

L is for Leonila, our favorite little girl.

L is for Leonila…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Leonila's letter becomes Leonila's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Leonila's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Leonila mean?
Leonila means 'young lion' and is a feminine form of Leon.
How popular is the name Leonila?
Leonila peaked in popularity in 1936, but its current usage is rare and not ranked in recent years.
Is Leonila a boy or girl name?
Leonila is typically used as a girl's name.