Leopold

Often explained as ‘bold people’ or ‘brave among the people’.

Leopold is a classic masculine given name, strongly associated with German-speaking and Central European history. It feels formal and traditional, but it also shortens easily to a widely familiar nickname. Etymologically, Leopold is usually analyzed as coming from early Germanic name elements: one linked to ‘people’ (often written liut/leud in scholarly glosses) and another linked to ‘bold’ or ‘brave’ (bald). That combination is often paraphrased as ‘bold people’ or ‘brave among the people’. In English, a common pronunciation guide is LEE-uh-pohld. In German contexts, you may hear a clearer three-syllable lay-oh-polt-style rhythm; if you need precision, it’s worth asking for the preferred local pronunciation.

Etymology: From early Germanic name elements often glossed as ‘people’ (liut/leud) and ‘bold’ (bald).