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Name Popularity Over Time
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Similar Names
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Leander is a captivating male name with deep roots in Greek mythology and history. This moniker has endured for centuries, joining the ranks of classic, distinguished boy names that still see steady usage today.
The name Leander derives from the Greek elements "leon," meaning "lion," and "aner," meaning "man." Together, the name translates to "lion-man" or "brave lion." This powerful symbolism has contributed to Leander's enduring appeal.
Common variations of the name include Leandr, Lienhard, Liander, and Leonardus. While less common, female forms like Leandra and Leeandra also exist.
In the United States, Leander has maintained moderate but consistent popularity over the decades. In 2022, the name ranked #1601 on the Social Security Administration's list of most popular baby boy names, with 17 newborns receiving the moniker.
Historically, Leander reached its highest point of usage in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. While not as widely used today, the name has a storied legacy, with famous literary and historical figures bearing the name throughout the ages.
Some notable Leanders include:
Leander is considered a classic, sophisticated name that projects an air of strength and nobility. It has an old-world charm that appeals to parents seeking a distinguished, yet not overly common, option for their son.
This name is often associated with traits like bravery, leadership, and ambition. Leanders are often described as confident, determined, and protective—qualities that embody the name's mythical lion-man origins.
Leander is a rhythmic, three-syllable name that flows well with a variety of middle and last names. Some complementary pairings include:
Leander's ancient Greek roots have made him a prominent figure in classical literature and mythology. Perhaps the most famous tale involving a Leander is the tragic love story of Leander and Hero, immortalized in the poem "Hero and Leander" by the ancient Greek poet Musaeus.
In this legend, Leander is a young man who swims across the Hellespont (modern-day Dardanelles strait) each night to visit his lover, Hero, a priestess of Aphrodite. One stormy night, Leander drowns, and Hero, upon seeing his lifeless body, takes her own life in grief.
This poignant tale has inspired countless artistic and literary works over the centuries, solidifying Leander's place in the cultural lexicon.
If you're drawn to the bold, heroic quality of Leander, you may also appreciate these stylistically similar boy name options:
Overall, Leander is a name that commands attention and respect, with a rich history and a range of positive associations. For parents seeking a classic, strong-willed name for their son, Leander is undoubtedly a compelling choice.
2022 | 109 | 1,601 |
2021 | 87 | 1,797 |
2020 | 90 | 1,721 |
2019 | 87 | 1,783 |
2018 | 64 | 2,182 |
2017 | 64 | 2,134 |
2016 | 84 | 1,808 |
2015 | 73 | 1,995 |
2014 | 68 | 2,076 |
2013 | 61 | 2,168 |
Rows per page
Zander | 1,080 | View Details |
Leandro | 539 | View Details |
Leandre | 21 | View Details |
Leiland | 18 | View Details |
Leor | 12 | View Details |
Leelynd | 9 | View Details |
Leandros | 7 | View Details |
Leeon | 7 | View Details |
Leandrew | 6 | View Details |
Lealand | 6 | View Details |
Leeandre | 5 | View Details |
Leeander | 0 | View Details |
Leaon | 0 | View Details |
Leandrae | 0 | View Details |
Leandrea | 0 | View Details |
Leandra | 0 | View Details |
Leeandrew | 0 | View Details |
Leanna | 0 | View Details |
Lisander | 0 | View Details |
Leondrus | 0 | View Details |
Leion | 0 | View Details |
Leithan | 0 | View Details |
Lea | 0 | View Details |
Leonte | 0 | View Details |
Leeor | 0 | View Details |