Leo Zodiac Sign: Personality Traits, Compatibility & More

Leos are fierce, protective warriors that will stand up for what they believe in and who they love.

Leos are born between July 23rd and August 22nd making them the fifth sign on the zodiac wheel. Commonly known as outgoing, courageous, and ambitious, Leos are unafraid to speak their mind and be confident in who they are. Leo lions are eccentric and fun to be around and are extremely loyal when it comes to relationships, friendships, or kinships of any kind. Not to mention, they are extremely creative and very diligent when it comes to careers and hobbies alike.

Well-rounded and spunky, Leos are unique signs that are fierce in all possible ways.

Leo Personality Traits / Characteristics

A Leo zodiac sign is striking in all facets. Their daring soul makes them very confident, loyal, creative, and reliable. However, it also turns them arrogant, jealous, and hot-headed. All Leos need to learn to harness their audacious power if they want to be the best versions of themselves.

Leo Strengths

• Creative: Leos are vibrant individuals who are passionate and bold when it comes to creativity. They are often drawn to artistic hobbies and expressive career paths. 
• Welcoming: Often viewed as warm, welcoming, and friendly, Leos know how to turn a room full of strangers into a room full of friends. Their cheery demeanor and amiable personality can brighten almost any situation.
• Confidence: Proudful lions and lionesses, Leo’s confidence is unmatched. They are natural leaders who are prominently self-assured. Leos just need to be careful that their rich confidence does not turn into boastful cockiness. 
• Generosity: Leos may have a selfish side, but they’re always ready to lend a helping hand. They’re generous with their time and hearts, offering guidance, solving problems, and giving pep talks to loved ones.
• Supportiveness: Leos are there when you’re facing challenges. They’re the perfect person to have in your corner because they believe in your potential and build your confidence.
• Reliability: One of Leo’s greatest strengths is their reliability and maturity. They take their careers and relationships seriously, driven by ambition and determination. They’ll keep going, even when doubts arise.

Leo Weaknesses

• Ego: Leos are perfectionists who want to excel in everything. When they don’t see the results they want, panic can set in. They get jealous (or envious) easily because they want to be the best in everything.
• Jealousy: Leo’s competitive nature can lead to jealousy when they see others achieving what they wish for. Despite their inner struggles, they remain outwardly supportive and encouraging.
• Impatience: Leos can be impatient, driven by their determination to achieve their goals, and a bit rough around the edges.
• Stubborn: A Leo’s confidence can often make them stubborn as they’re too assured in their own abilities, plans, and ideas. They won’t back down easily if they feel they’re right or are tied too strongly to their vision.
• Demanding: Leo’s are hugely desperate for constant reassurance and attention. Their need for consistent love, care, and affirmation comes out often when they’re in long-term relationships. While at times, this can be endearing, it can also be quite demanding out of any partner, family member, or friend.
• Quick-Tempered: Fiery spirits like Leos can be extremely hot-headed. While eventually their temper will cool and they can return to logic, in a moment where they feel attacked or that a member of their pride is being hurt, their anger may get the best of them.

Things That Make Leo Happy

Leos have eccentric tastes when it comes to their interests. They love to be unique, admired, and adored by all so bold flavors, adventurous hobbies, and expressive pastimes are aligned with Leo’s spirit.  Here are a few examples:

• Discovering cool indie artists to share with their friends
• Cooking new meals to share with the people they love
• A successful shopping spree that replenishes their lavish wardrobe
• Performing spoken word poetry at a trendy open mic night
• Volunteering at their local animal shelter and doting on the sweet animals

Leo Dislikes

Leos hate anything that makes them feel like they’re background music to the main show. They never want to be viewed as mainstream so they consistently push themselves in all areas of their life (career, love, freetime, etc.). Not to mention, Leos despise being ignored, in fact it’s the one thing that turns them off the most because it makes them feel irrelevant and useless. Lastly, they hate feeling alone. Leos are fiercely loyal and are strongest when they have a large pride supporting them.

Leo Aesthetic/Style

Orange is the power color for Leo because it symbolizes vitality, energy, and warmth.

Leos love being the center of attention, so as much as they appreciate fashion, they won’t want to be caught wearing the same exact outfit as anyone else in the room. They want to be one of a kind, which is why they love to mix and match pieces. They won’t shy away from wearing bright colors and loud textures because it will give their look even more flare. Their power color, which embodies and highlights their personality, is orange. This is one of the boldest colors that makes them stand out from the crowd — and that’s exactly what Leo wants to do.

Leo Career Paths

Independent and confident to their core, Leo’s are natural born leaders that pursue their careers with great ambition and diligence. Due to a Leo’s creative mind and capabilities, they thrive in careers where they can think outside of the box and innovatively piece things together. Leos are very friendly and kind so they make wonderful coworkers. However, due to a Leo’s occasional arrogance and fiery competitive temperament, they may not always be the best team players. Nonetheless, most Leos are incredible assets to any workplace and will succeed at making their work as stellar as it can be.

Top career paths for Leos:

• Entrepreneur 
• Web developer
• Artist
• Actor

Leo Humor

No one loves making people laugh more than a Leo, mostly because it makes them the hilarious center of attention, but also because they love making their loved ones smile.

Leo Fun Facts

If Leo was…

• A Starbucks Drink: Cappuccino with oat milk and extra shot of espresso
• A Greek God: Apollo—god of music, arts, healing, and the sun 
• An Addiction: Shopping 
• An Alcoholic Beverage: Champagne 
• In a High-school Clique: Drama club kids 
• A City: Hollywood, California 
• A Harry Potter House: Gryffindor 
• An Untranslatable French Phrase: ‘la douleur exquise’—the pain of unrequited love 
• A Teen Movie: “Clueless” 
• A Clothing Item: Anything sparkly 
• A Famous Landmark: Versailles 
• A Season: Summer

What All Signs Can Expect During Leo Season

When Leo season occurs each year, all of the signs will feel a surge in confidence. It’s the best time of year to start a new project, apply for a new position, or make the first move in a budding relationship. This season will propel you closer to your dreams because Leos are all about success. 

Leo Relationship Compatibility

Leos are lovers to the core. They thrive in relationships that are eventful, surprising, and doting. They are most compatible with fellow fire signs (Aries and Sagittarius) and least compatible with earth signs (Virgo, Taurus, and Capricorn). Not to mention, they’re passionate and feisty in the bedroom.

Most Compatible Signs

Leos are most compatible with fellow fire signs (Aries and Sagittarius) because they are passionate and spontaneous too. Although Leos are loyal and consistent in love, they are big fans of adventure and need an unpredictable partner who will keep things fresh and interesting long into the relationship. 

Air signs (Geminis, Libras, and Aquarius) are also great partners for Leos because they all have high energy and open minds, so they are able to keep up with a feisty Leo. Their relationship will stay fun and interesting, even years down the line, because both parties will be putting in an equal amount of effort.

Most compatible signs for Leos:

• Aries & Sagittarius: Leos work best with fellow fire signs. Together, they live a life full of passion, adventure, and fierce loyalty. Because they are grounded in the same element, Leos, Aries, and Sagittarius have an innate sense of understanding for one another that makes for a seamless partnership.
• Gemini: Leos and Geminis instantly click because they are both playful signs that seek new connections. Together, they create a perfect mix of outgoing and loving that keeps their life balanced but fun.
• Libra: Libras are air signs and what does fire need to come alive? Oxygen. These two are harmonious as ever, balancing each other out in the right ways. Leos and Libra partnerships are successful because they encourage each other to be better in new ways each day.
• Aquarius: An Aquarius, Leo love is the definition of opposites attract. Each sign is equally drawn to the differences in each other. This partnership does not always thrive because it can cause two individuals to butt heads. However, with two secure individuals, these matches air on the magical side; helping each other to grow and always magnifying the love, awe, and infatuation they have for one another.

Least Compatible Signs

Leos are least compatible with earth signs (Virgo, Taurus, Capricorn) because they tend to be too logical and grounded for an adventurous Leo. Partners who are too practical, structured, and routine-oriented tend to bore Leos as they need a lot of stimulation and excitement to keep their fiery love ablaze. While it’s not impossible for a healthy relationship to thrive between a Leo and an earth sign, their chemistry might be harder to foster when compared to other astrological connections.

Least compatible signs for Leos:

• Virgo
• Taurus
• Capricorn

Leo in Love and Dating

When it comes to relationships, Leos are as loyal as they come. They would never cheat on a partner or purposely try to make them jealous because they have too much respect for their relationships. They take their commitments seriously and would never want to hurt someone they love. 

Leos are a sweet, protective sign, so they will put active effort into making their partner happy — as long as their person does the same. Leos have incredibly high standards for their partners and expect to be spoiled rotten. The bare minimum will not cut it for them. However, they always reciprocate romantic gestures. They pay close attention to their partners and plan elaborate dates in order to make their person feel valued and appreciated.

Key traits of a Leo in love:

• Loyal
• Committed
• Doting
• Affectionate
• Passionate
• Spontaneous
• Thoughtful

Leo Family Members

The most prominent trait of a Leo family member (mother, daughter, sister, cousin, etc.) is their loyalty. Leos hold their family very close to their heart and are extremely prideful of where they come from. It’s rare for a Leo to speak poorly about their family and they tend to be very family-oriented. Not to mention, if they feel anyone in their family is hurting or being attacked in some way, Leos are the first to step in and defend them. 

It’s also important to mention that Leos are very independent from a very young age. This independence can make them appear distant from their family at times, but rest assured that is not the case. In fact, a Leo’s ability to stand on their own often sets them up to be the glue of the family in some ways as their parents, siblings, spouses, etc. know they can rely on their Leo when needed.

Qualities of a Leo family member:

• Independent
• Loyal
• Dependable
• Prideful

Leo Friendships

Leos are immensely dedicated to their friendships and often it’s with friends that their generous, big-hearted nature comes out the most. With their affable spirit, it’s easy for most people to get along with a Leo, which often curates a wide network of friends for Leos. This wide network is also indicative of a Leo’s desire to never be alone. They thrive on extroversion and spending time with people they have fun with and can open up to. 

Leos are able to bond with most signs, but the signs they feel closest to tend to be fellow fire signs (Sagittarius and Aries) and air signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius). 

Top signs for friendship compatibility:

• Gemini
• Sagittarius
• Leo

Leo Symbology

Leos are represented by a variety of symbols and emblems that speak to their bold, ferocity. The two most popular symbols include the prideful lion and the peridot birthstone that is brought to earth by fiery volcanic eruptions.

Leo Glyph/Symbol

The Leo symbol is simple to draw. It consists of a small circle and a wavy line extending from the top of that circle. In order to draw this symbol, start by creating a circle with a small line on top that looks similar to a hollow music note. Then add a curved line going down and to the right, and you’re done!

Leo Animal

Leos are represented by lions because they are fierce, courageous, and loyal. If someone hurts their loved ones, there will be trouble. Leos are fearless, so they won’t run away from conflict; they will speak loudly and proudly. 

Another reason lions are known as the Leo animal is because they make strong leaders. They never look for guidance from others because they can figure out solutions on their own. They are clever, perceptive, and adaptable enough to problem-solve on their own. 

Leo Birthstone

The Leo birthstone is the Peridot, which is also known as chrysolite and is referred to as the “gem of the sun.” This is a deep yellowish-green gem that is also known as the study stone. This is because it’s associated with focus, purpose, and wisdom. Since Leos are natural leaders who think on their feet and always have a plan, this is the perfect birthstone to represent their intelligent, curious nature.

Leo Element

Leos are grouped under the fire element, along with Aries and Sagittarius. 

Fire signs are known for being daring, emotionally strong, and creative. They make wonderful friends and partners because they always keep relationships fresh and exciting. However, these signs also have short tempers. They might blurt out words that they regret in the heat of the moment because their impulsivity makes it hard for them to think through the consequences of their actions. They act now and worry about the fallout later.

Leo Modality

Leos are a fixed sign, just like Taurus, Scorpio, and Aquarius. 

Fixed signs are hardworking, courageous, and independent. They aren’t afraid to put effort into their careers and relationships because they understand that success requires hard work. Fixed signs are self-sufficient and can take care of themselves. At the end of the day, you can always count on them because they are responsible, dependable, and never break a promise.

Leo Planetary Ruler

Leo’s ruling planet is the sun. This bright star is associated with an equally bright, bold sign. Leos have high energy and huge aspirations. They always follow their passions and never give up on themselves, no matter how long it takes to reach their dreams. The sun’s influence can also cause this sign to be self-involved, but that doesn’t mean they’re heartless. It simply means they’re prioritizing themselves because they love and respect their essence.

Leo House Ruler

Leo signs are typically ruled by the fifth house in the astrological wheel, representing creativity, romance, and entertainment. 

The fifth house represents self-expression and the way that you see yourself. It encourages you to consider what type of person you are and want to be. Although Leos never let societal pressures convince them to change their paths, they care about their reputations. They want the world to see them the way they see themselves: strong and fierce.

Leo Tarot Card

The strength tarot card represents courage, persuasion, influence, and compassion when it is placed upright, which makes sense since Leos are one of the fiercest signs in the zodiac. They never let fear stand in their way, and since they are natural leaders, they are able to influence the people around them. In most situations, they are the leader, not the follower.

Leo Part of the Body

The parts of the body ruled by Leo are the heart and the spine. The heart and the spine are two areas that are associated with emotional strength and endurance. After all, Leos are always standing tall. They have a stiff spine and stand up for what they believe in. They never back down from a challenge and always stick to their morals. Leos aren’t going to tolerate disrespect, whether it is aimed at them or someone near them.

Astrology Big Three — Leo Edition

A common term in astrology is someone’s “big three,” which consists of a person’s sun sign, moon sign, and rising sign. Your sun sign represents your core traits while your moon sign speaks to your emotional landscape and your rising sign displays how you appear in the world.

Your sun sign is coordinated by the day you were born. For example, someone who is a Leo sun sign is born between the dates of July 23rd and August 22nd. Your moon sign is coordinated by the placement of the moon on the exact time you were born. Your rising sign, also known as your ‘ascendant sign,’ is calculated by the exact time of your birth on your birthday. All of these signs can be found by having your full birth chart calculated.

Leo Sun

Someone with a Leo sun sign is vibrant, joyful, and powerful. They are often creative in their pursuits and love to be loved and give love. They are loyal companions and friends but can sometimes have a temper or air on the side of jealousy.

In fact, this entire page highlights the core aspects of a sun sign in Leo so for more information, continue reading.

Leo Moon

Your moon sign speaks to your emotional landscape; the desires you hold within and how you express them.

If you’re a Leo moon, you are bold, brave, and respectful. But you demand the same type of respect that you are always giving to others. You have high standards that you refuse to alter for anyone because you understand your worth. You move through the world with confidence and grace. You also have expensive taste and prefer to surround yourself with lavish furniture and items. This is because you aren’t comfortable settling in any area of your life, whether it’s your relationships or your living situation.

Leo Rising

Your rising sign represents how you appear to others or traits others see in you upon first getting to know you.

If you’re a Leo rising, you are theatrical and entertaining. You enjoy being the center of attention and command every room that you enter. You are also friendly and warm, which is why you get along with pretty much everyone. Although others might be intimidated by you in the beginning, you always have kind words to say about them. You are a natural leader who delivers inspirational pep talks and gives sincere compliments. You see the potential in others, and you try to help them succeed in whatever way you can.

Famous Leo Celebrities

Some notable people with a Sun Sign in Leo include: 

• Jennifer Lopez, singer, 1969
• Ben Affleck, actor, 1972
• Meghan Markle, actress, 1981
• Martha Stewart, businesswoman, 1941
• Anna Kendrick, actress, 1985
• Chris Hemsworth, actor, 1983
• Viola Davis, actress, 1965
• Mila Kunis, actress, 1983
• Daniel Radcliffe, actor, 1989
• Sandra Bullock, actress, 1964
• Helen Mirren, actress, 1945
• Mick Jagger, singer, 1943
• Maya Rudolph, actress, 1972
• Vivica A. Fox, actress, 1964
• Jason Momoa, actor, 1979
• Jennifer Lawrence, actress, 1990
• Madonna, singer, 1958
• Tom Brady, athlete, 1977
• Cara Delevingne, model, 1992
• Matt LeBlanc, actor, 1967
• Lisa Kudrow, actress, 1963
• Laurence Fishburne, actor, 1961