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Name Origin

Leonel is a masculine given name of Spanish and Portuguese origin. It is a variant of the name Lionel, which derives from the Old French words 'leo' meaning lion and 'nel' meaning 'young'. Therefore, Leonel traditionally means 'young lion'.

spanishportuguesemasculinelionstrengthyouthcourageleadership

Famous People

Leonel Messi (1987-)

Professional footballer

  • Seven-time Ballon d'Or winner
  • FIFA World Cup champion (2022)
  • Numerous La Liga and Champions League titles

Leonel Sánchez (1936-2004)

Chilean footballer

  • Led Chile to victory at the 1962 FIFA World Cup

Leonel Fernández (1953-)

Politician

  • President of the Dominican Republic (1996-2000, 2004-2008, 2012-2016)