Theo
Theo first appears in US records in 1880. It peaked in 2023, when 4,140 boys were given the name; in 2025 there were 3,945.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Theo popular?
Near its peak Theo is more popular now than at almost any point on record, peaking in 2023.
| 2020s | 20,784 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 8,189 | |
| 2000s | 1,386 | |
| 1990s | 600 | |
| 1980s | 540 | |
| 1970s | 386 | |
| 1960s | 323 | |
| 1950s | 371 | |
| 1940s | 440 | |
| 1930s | 680 | |
| 1920s | 980 | |
| 1910s | 714 | |
| 1900s | 226 | |
| 1890s | 118 | |
| 1880s | 93 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Theo mean?
Short form of Theodore (or feminine Theodora), from Greek theos 'God' + doron 'gift'. Carries the 'gift of God' sense of the full name; on its own the element theos means 'God'.
Names like Theo
greek names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Theo
Popular greek names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Theo
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Theo mean?
Theo means gift of God. Short form of Theodore (or feminine Theodora), from Greek theos 'God' + doron 'gift'. Carries the 'gift of God' sense of the full name; on its own the element theos means 'God'.
What is the origin of the name Theo?
Theo is of greek origin.
How do you pronounce Theo?
Theo is pronounced “THEE-oh.”
Is Theo a boy or a girl name?
Theo is most commonly used as a unisex name.
Is Theo a popular name right now?
Theo is more popular now than at almost any point on record, peaking in 2023.
How popular is the name Theo?
In 2025, Theo ranked #82 among boys’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Theo most popular?
Theo was most popular in 2023, when about 4,140 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What names are similar to Theo?
Names similar to Theo include Aster, Kyrie, Lotus, Phoenix.
What names go well with Theo?
greek names that pair well with Theo include Christopher, Cynthia, Andrew, Helen, Timothy.