Lionel

Meaning of Lionel

It means "young lion" or "lion cub."

Lionel has French roots — browse every French baby name in our catalog.

Popularity of Lionel

Lionel has cooled off, slipping to #659 in 2025, down from a peak of #496 in 2023.

Notable people named Lionel

• Lionel Messi
  Argentine professional footballer
• Lionel Richie
  American singer and songwriter
• Lionel Hampton
  American jazz musician
• Lionel Barrymore
  American actor
• Lionel Ferbos
  American jazz trumpeter

More French names

Questions about the name Lionel

What does the name Lionel mean?

Lionel means it means "young lion" or "lion cub.", and it comes from French origins.

Is Lionel a boy's or a girl's name?

Lionel is most commonly used as a boy's name in the United States.

How popular is the name Lionel?

In 2025, Lionel ranked #659 for boys, down from #560 the year before.

When was Lionel most popular?

Lionel peaked at #496 in 2023.