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Leotis
Pronounced lee-OH-tis /liˈoʊtɪs/Medium
Meaning: Leotis is a home-grown American coinage, most plausibly joining Leo, from the Latin leo, 'lion', to Otis, an English surname-name from the Germanic Ode, 'wealth' or 'fortune'. Used notably in African-American communities of the twentieth century, it reads as a strong, self-standing blend; the exact formation is uncertain, so the meaning is offered with modest confidence.Low
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.
History & Origin
Leotis is an American coinage most likely blending Leo, 'lion', with the surname-name Otis, 'wealth'. Recorded chiefly in African-American families across the twentieth century, it belongs to the tradition of inventive, resonant given names rather than any single classical source.
It was always rare, reaching only a couple dozen boys a year around 1949 before easing away. A Leotis from that time belongs to a grandfather's generation now, and the name keeps a bold, home-made vintage strength.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Leotis mean?
It's most likely a coined blend of Leo, 'lion', and Otis, 'wealth' or 'fortune'.
How do you pronounce Leotis?
It's said lee-OH-tis /liˈoʊtɪs/, three syllables, stress on the second.
Is Leotis a boy or girl name?
Leotis is used as a boy's name.
Is Leotis a popular name?
No, it was always rare, a coined name seen only faintly through the twentieth century.