Leontiev

Leontiev is a Russian surname. It derives from the given name Leontiy (Leontius) and ultimately from the Greek word león, meaning “lion.” The feminine form is Leontyeva (Leontyeva/Leontieva). Transliteration into English can vary, with Leontiev, Leontyev, and Leontyeva among common forms.

The surname is most commonly found in Russia and other Slavic regions. In English-language texts, the spelling may differ depending on transliteration conventions, but the surname remains recognizable as a variant of the same family name.

Notable individuals bearing the surname include Alexei Nikolaevich Leontiev (Alexei N. Leontiev, 1903–1979), a Soviet psychologist who played a leading role in developing activity theory. Leontiev and his colleagues expanded on the cultural-historical approach to psychology, examining how human cognition and behavior are mediated by social tools and organizational structures. He distinguished a hierarchical structure of goal-directed behavior—activity, action, and operation—and emphasized the role of social and cultural context in mental development.

In reference works, Leontiev may appear in discussions of Russian psychology, philosophy of mind, or studies of activity theory. The name likewise appears in genealogical or biographical references related to individuals with Slavic origins.