'lion' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'leō', and from Ancient Greek 'leōn'.

'lion' entered English via Old French 'lion' (and late Latin 'leō'), appearing in Middle English and eventually becoming the modern English word 'lion'.

Initially, it referred to the animal (Panthera leo); over time the word has retained that primary sense and also acquired figurative meanings such as 'a mighty or celebrated person'.