Theodore

♂

Greek

✨ Meaning

Theodore derives from the Greek 'Theodoros,' composed of 'theos' (God) and 'doron' (gift), meaning 'gift of God.' The name expresses the idea that the child is a divine blessing. It has been borne by many saints, two popes, and a president, giving it a legacy of leadership, faith, and intellectual distinction.

🌍 Origin

Theodore was popular in the early Christian church, borne by numerous saints and martyrs. In the United States, President Theodore (Teddy) Roosevelt (1858-1919) made it a household name, along with giving the world the teddy bear. After decades of decline, Theodore has surged back as one of the hottest vintage baby names of the 21st century.

📈 Popularity Trend

20202021202220232024 #23#15#12#11#9

⭐ Famous People Named Theodore

  • Theodore Roosevelt
  • Theodore Dreiser
  • Theo James

💫 Similar Names

♂ Edmund ♂ Thaddeus ♂ Nathaniel ♂ Sebastian ♂ Cornelius

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What does Theodore mean?

Theodore means 'gift of God' from Greek 'theos' (God) and 'doron' (gift). It expresses the idea of a child as a divine blessing.

Is Theodore a popular name?

Theodore has surged from #23 in 2020 to the top 10, driven by the vintage name trend and enthusiasm for the presidential nickname Teddy.

What are similar names to Theodore?

Similar names include Edmund, Thaddeus, Nathaniel, Sebastian, and Cornelius — all stately vintage names with classical and religious depth.