Theodore
Theodore first appears in US records in 1880. It peaked in 2025, when 13,355 boys were given the name; in 2025 there were 13,355.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Theodore popular?
Near its peak Theodore is more popular now than at almost any point on record, peaking in 2025.
| 2020s | 65,579 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 40,530 | |
| 2000s | 10,556 | |
| 1990s | 10,113 | |
| 1980s | 11,958 | |
| 1970s | 13,567 | |
| 1960s | 21,288 | |
| 1950s | 29,050 | |
| 1940s | 26,249 | |
| 1930s | 24,957 | |
| 1920s | 31,287 | |
| 1910s | 21,106 | |
| 1900s | 6,490 | |
| 1890s | 2,300 | |
| 1880s | 2,176 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Theodore mean?
Theodore is from the Greek Theodōros — theos (god) plus dōron (gift) — “gift of God.”
Nicknames for Theodore
- Theo
- Teddy
- Ted
Variants & spellings
- Theodor
- Teodoro
Names like Theodore
Greek names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Theodore
Popular Greek names for a sibling or a middle name.
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Theodore mean?
Theodore means Gift of God. Theodore is from the Greek Theodōros — theos (god) plus dōron (gift) — “gift of God.”
What is the origin of the name Theodore?
Theodore is of Greek origin.
How do you pronounce Theodore?
Theodore is pronounced “THEE-uh-dor.”
Is Theodore a boy or a girl name?
Theodore is most commonly used as a boy name.
Is Theodore a popular name right now?
Theodore is more popular now than at almost any point on record, peaking in 2025.
How popular is the name Theodore?
In 2025, Theodore ranked #4 among boys’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Theodore most popular?
Theodore was most popular in 2025, when about 13,355 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What are common nicknames for Theodore?
Common nicknames for Theodore include Theo, Teddy, Ted.
What names are similar to Theodore?
Names similar to Theodore include Oliver, Sebastian, Arthur, Felix.
What names go well with Theodore?
Greek names that pair well with Theodore include Christopher, Andrew, Helen, Timothy, Nicholas.