Leonard is a common male given name that has roots in Old High German, meaning "brave lion." It has been used in various cultures and languages, often associated with strength and courage. The name has several variations, including Leonardo in Italian and Leon in French. In popular culture, Leonard is often depicted in literature and media. One notable example is Leonard Hofstadter, a character from the television show The Big Bang Theory, who is portrayed as a physicist with a kind heart and a passion for science. The name continues to be popular in many countries today.