125 Personality Traits of Leos—the Fiery Drama Queens of the Zodiac!
Hands up for the Leos, the lovable drama queens of the zodiac. As we enter the dog days of summer, it’s time for the lion’s sign to shine. If you were born between July 23 and August 22, there’s no need to ask what your sign is, as your exuberant Leo energy radiates in everything that you do! If you have a Leo in your life, hang on tight as we untangle the mysterious personality traits behind the ferocious feline. Here's a cosmic download of everything you need to know about the Leo astrological sign, including characteristics, personality traits, dates, zodiac sign, who Leo is compatible with, what planet rules Leo and more.
What’s the Leo zodiac sign?
G. Stromberg for Astrostyle
Leo, the fifth sign of the zodiac, is a fire sign. That fieriness can be seen in their passion, resolve, approach to conflict and communication style. Ever the showman, Leo was made to shimmer and shine as they live their best life, by their own rules. This can sometimes mean that Leo personalities hog the spotlight or step on some toes, but it’s not done with malice.
Leo is represented by the lion—a very simple graphic meant to resemble a Lion and its mane and spine—sometimes paired with two halves of a heart. This depicts Leo’s deep relationship with their emotions and connection to feelings. Your quintessential Leo is run by the heart, and not the head—sometimes to their detriment. Big sentiments are a classic Leo characteristic, including bravery, vanity, romance and, yes, drama. But Leo is as loyal as they come, with a protectiveness that runs deep as blood.
The AstroTwins describe Leo energy as “courageous, kind, generous, loyal, protective, nakedly honest and entertaining.” Although they acknowledge that Leo’s big personality can upstage some of their less-expressive counterparts, they insist that “[u]sed properly, Leo energy leaves others awakened and revitalized in an empowering way.” Leo’s infectious enthusiasm beams forward like its ruling planet, the Sun, in a way that entices others to free their hearts and live out loud!
If you are astrologically conscientious, you can probably discern a Leo within moments of meeting one. Without a doubt, they have an unmistakable vibe that pulls others into their orbit like a magnet. Leo is the life of every party, the one singing loudest at karaoke, the flashiest dresser and the boldest, most sexy of mates.
At their worst, Leo can be "arrogant, greedy, sloppy, coldhearted, jealous, aggressive and vain." The AstroTwins share: "Leo energy can cause us to upstage those around us, forgetting that each and every person is a valuable member to a team." For the most part, however, these bold souls shine in both friendships and romance with their enthusiasm, natural warmth, and fidelity. "Leo energy leaves others awakened and revitalized in an empowering way," say the AstroTwins.
Getting the hang of Leo’s vibe? Read on to unlock the secret code behind Leo’s personality traits—their strengths, their shortcomings, and what generally makes them tick.
Related: The 3 Fire Signs of the Zodiac, Explained—All About the Fire Element and Its Traits
Most common Leo personality traits
When they are at their best, Leos are...
Entertaining
Flamboyant
Vivacious
Passionate
Expressive
Bold
Glamorous
Warm
Leaders
Artistic
Hilarious
Faithful
Fashionable
Assertive
Fearless
Honest
On the other hand, the Leo personality has some tough qualities, too...
Possessive
Reckless
Callous
Show-offish
Domineering
Overbearing
Spiteful
Jealous
Narcissistic
Sloppy
Self-centered
Shallow
Infuriating
Wrathful
Vain
Related: Gifts for Your Astrology-Obsessed Loved One
Leos make great friends because they are...
Loyal
Generous
Empowering
Hospitable
Caring
Friendly
Sunny
The life of the party
Fun
Creative
Protective
Those qualities that make Leo amazing lovers include...
Sensual
Enthusiastic
Flirtatious
Hot-blooded
Endlessly romantic
Skilled in bed
Giving
Gorgeous
Fiery
Dominating
Exhibitionist
Insatiable
Wild
Outrageous
Frisky
Cocky
Swaggering
Charming
In the workplace, your typical Leo personality is...
Take-charge
Motivating
Charismatic
Responsible
Brave
The perfect party planner
A go-getter
Capable
Management material
Innovative
Magnetic
Unwavering
A good delegator
Chatty
Words that describe classic Leo style:
Bold
Flashy
On-trend
Exotic
Luxurious
Confident
Related: How Mercury Retrograde Affects You—and 10 Ways To Deal With It
In their free time, Leo is...
Spoiled
A shopaholic
Preening
Never alone
Spendy
Party-loving
Extravagant
Fun
A self-care junkie
Obsessed with creature comforts
In short, your typical Leo personality is...
Regal
Busy
A genius at self-acceptance
Hyper
Introspective
Not a fan of exercise
A good singer
Sexy
Controversial
Social
Extra
A creature of routine
A champion selfie-taker
Loud
Funny
Unforgettable
Strong
Idealistic
Powerful
Harmonious
Mature
Independent
Craving security
Boastful
Stable
Loving compliments
Poised
Thrilling
Open-minded
Impressive
Inspiring
Graceful
Noble
Ferocious
Nurturing
Related: Best Self-Care Practice for You, According to Your Zodiac Sign
More about the Leo personality and zodiac sign
We asked the AstroTwins to detail a bit more about what it means to be a Leo—beyond their most common characteristics and personality traits—and more about what it takes for them to live their best life.
What’s the best look for a Leo?
They note that Leo personalities are flamboyant, favor indie labels and look great in: prints, bold colors, fitted cuts and safari chic.
What are the best jobs/careers for a Leo?
Those under the Leo zodiac sign have traits that mean they should consider: actor, teacher, counselor, artist, interior decorator, lawyer, agent, performer, artist, religious leader, CEO, event planner, human rights advocate, children’s author, politician, public speaker, motivational trainer, dancer, owner of a creative empire, fashion designer, game developer or animal trainer.
Who is Leo most (and least) compatible with and why?
The AstroTwins believe that any two signs are compatible. It just depends on what you want from a relationship! Some people like an easy-breezy vibe, others prefer the challenge that comes from dating someone who is dynamic and different.
Same Sign (Conjunct): Leo
Similar temperaments; possibly too alike
One Sign Apart (Inconjunct): Cancer, Virgo
Strong attraction, but can be awkward and hard to understand each other
Two Signs Apart (Sextile): Gemini, Libra
Best friends with benefits, friendly and fun
Three Signs Apart (Square): Taurus, Scorpio
Difficult, but an exciting challenge
Four Signs Apart (Trine): Aries, Sagittarius
Easy and harmonious but can get too comfortable
Five Signs Apart (Quincunx): Capricorn, Pisces
Karmic connection, challenging—but will keep you on your toes
Seven Signs Apart (Opposite): Aquarius
Magnetic, intense chemistry; can repel and attract in equal measure
What is the Leo element?
According to the AstroTwins, "Leo is one of the three zodiac signs ruled under the fire element. The other two fire signs are Aries and Sagittarius. Since Leo is the second fire element in the zodiac, it turns the flame into a roaring fire with the intensity of its heat felt by all. Many Leo people are magnetic performers and natural-born leaders. Under the influence of a Leo planetary cycle, we’ll all feel the burning desire to steal the spotlight and shine, shine, shine! At the same time, we may step on some toes and get a little overzealous, even pissing people off with our bossy demeanor."
What is the Leo color?
Sunshine yellow, orange, gold.
What is the Leo birthstone?
Ruby is the birthstone for Leos born in July; peridot is the stone for August-born Leos.
What planet rules Leo?
Leo personalities are "ruled by the great ball of fire that is the center of our universe, the Sun," say the AstroTwins. "Typically, the Sun represents the ego and the masculine life force energy found in humans. In Ancient Greek and Roman Mythology, Apollo was the Sun god who drove his chariot of flaming horses around the Earth during the daytime, setting the skies afire with bright light. It’s no wonder that Leo has such fierce and fiery fervency!"
Next up, read about the luscious desserts that pair perfectly with your zodiac sign!