The name Cleo originated from the ancient Greek name Kleopatra, which means "glory of the father." It was a popular name among the Ptolemaic dynasty that ruled Egypt from 305 BCE to 30 BCE. The name Cleo is a shortened form of Kleopatra.

The most famous historical figure with the name Cleopatra was Cleopatra VII Philopator, the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt. She was born in 69 BCE and ruled as the co-ruler of Egypt from 51 BCE until her death in 30 BCE. Cleopatra was known for her intelligence, leadership, and her relationships with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony.

Another notable figure with the name Cleo was Cleo de Merode, a French dancer and courtesan who was born in 1875 and died in 1966. She was a prominent figure in the Belle Époque era of Paris and was known for her beauty and performances at the Folies Bergère.

Cleo Laine, a British jazz singer and actress, was born in 1927 and is still living. She has had a successful career spanning over seven decades and has been honored with numerous awards, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

Cleo Moore was an American actress and singer who was born in 1928 and died in 1973. She was known for her roles in several film noir and Western movies in the 1950s, including "One Girl's Confession" and "Hit and Run."

Cleo Lane was a British singer and actress who was born in 1927 and died in 2017. She had a successful career in both the UK and the US, performing in various musicals and stage shows, as well as appearing on television and in films.