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?

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...

1. Entertaining

2. Flamboyant

3. Vivacious

4. Passionate

5. Expressive

6. Bold

7. Glamorous

8. Warm

9. Leaders

10. Artistic

11. Hilarious

12. Faithful

13. Fashionable

14. Assertive

15. Fearless

16. Honest

On the other hand, the Leo personality has some tough qualities, too...

1. Possessive

2. Reckless

3. Callous

4. Show-offish

5. Domineering

6. Overbearing

7. Spiteful

8. Jealous

9. Narcissistic

10. Sloppy

11. Self-centered

12. Shallow

13. Infuriating

14. Wrathful

15. Vain

Related: Gifts for Your Astrology-Obsessed Loved One

Leos make great friends because they are...

1. Loyal

2. Generous

3. Empowering

4. Hospitable

5. Caring

6. Friendly

7. Sunny

8. The life of the party

9. Fun

10. Creative

11. Protective

Those qualities that make Leo amazing lovers include...

1. Sensual

2. Enthusiastic

3. Flirtatious

4. Hot-blooded

5. Endlessly romantic

6. Skilled in bed

7. Giving

8. Gorgeous

9. Fiery

10. Dominating

11. Exhibitionist

12. Insatiable

13. Wild

14. Outrageous

15. Frisky

16. Cocky

17. Swaggering

18. Charming

In the workplace, your typical Leo personality is...

1. Take-charge

2. Motivating

3. Charismatic

4. Responsible

5. Brave

6. The perfect party planner

7. A go-getter

8. Capable

9. Management material

10. Innovative

11. Magnetic

12. Unwavering

13. A good delegator

14. Chatty

Words that describe classic Leo style:

1. Bold

2. Flashy

3. On-trend

4. Exotic

5. Luxurious

6. Confident

Related: How Mercury Retrograde Affects You—and 10 Ways To Deal With It

In their free time, Leo is...

1. Spoiled

2. A shopaholic

3. Preening

4. Never alone

5. Spendy

6. Party-loving

7. Extravagant

8. Fun

9. A self-care junkie

10. Obsessed with creature comforts

In short, your typical Leo personality is...

1. Regal

2. Busy

3. A genius at self-acceptance

4. Hyper

5. Introspective

6. Not a fan of exercise

7. A good singer

8. Sexy

9. Controversial

10. Social

11. Extra

12. A creature of routine

13. A champion selfie-taker

14. Loud

15. Funny

16. Unforgettable

17. Strong

18. Idealistic

19. Powerful

20. Harmonious

21. Mature

22. Independent

23. Craving security

24. Boastful

25. Stable

26. Loving compliments

27. Poised

28. Thrilling

29. Open-minded

30. Impressive

31. Inspiring

32. Graceful

33. Noble

34. Ferocious

35. 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!