Leo vs Theodore

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Leo

Boy #24 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"lion-hearted, brave"

Origin: Latin

Cultural Roots

English Italian German French American Spanish

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#24
Total SSA Count
7,793
Syllables
2
Formality
Casual

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for Leo →

Popularity Comparison

Leo Rank #24
Theodore Rank #4

Theodore is more popular, ranked #4 vs #24 for Leo.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Leo ___

  • Leo James
  • Leo Thomas
  • Leo Alexander
  • Leo Cole
  • Leo Grey
  • Leo Xavier

Theodore ___

  • Theodore James
  • Theodore William
  • Theodore Alexander
  • Theodore John
  • Theodore Henry
  • Theodore Arthur

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Leo

Luna Isla Mia Oscar Violet

If you choose Theodore

Olivia Charlotte Amelia Eleanor Oliver

Which Name Fits Your Family?

Answer 3 quick questions and we'll help you decide.

1. Which style feels more like your family?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Leo or Theodore more popular?

Theodore is more popular, ranked #4 compared to Leo at #24 in the United States.

What do Leo and Theodore mean?

Leo means "lion-hearted, brave" (Latin origin). Theodore means "divine gift" (Greek origin).

Are Leo and Theodore boy or girl names?

Leo is primarily a boy name. Theodore is primarily a boy name.

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← Full profile: Leo ← Full profile: Theodore Browse all baby names