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Theodore

♂ Boy

Pronounced THEE-uh-dor /ˈθiː.ə.dɔːr/High

Meaning: Gift of God; divine giftHigh

In 30 seconds: From the Greek for 'gift of God,' Theodore is a classic that feels both stately and warmly old-fashioned. It has surged back into the U.S. top ten in the 21st century.
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Origin HighGreek
MeaningGift of God; divine gift
Peak year2017
Total births (all-time)≈ 236,523

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

peak 201718802017

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Theodore comes from the Greek Theodoros, a compound of theos (God) and doron (gift). The name was popular in early Christian communities due to several saints and martyrs named Theodore, including the notable St. Theodore of Amasea.

The name flourished in the Byzantine Empire and was used throughout medieval Europe. In the United States it gained distinction through President Theodore Roosevelt (1858–1919). It fell from fashion mid-20th century but has experienced a dramatic revival since the 2010s, re-entering the top ten by the 2020s.

Did you know? Theodore is the reverse of Dorothea — both names combine theos (God) and doron (gift), but in opposite order. Dorothy means 'gift of God' just as Theodore does, only with the elements flipped.

Variations

TheodorosTudorFedorTeodorTheo

Nicknames

TheoTedTeddy

Famous Bearers

  • ★Theodore Roosevelt (1858–1919)
    26th President of the United States and Nobel Peace Prize recipient.
  • ★Theodore Dreiser (1871–1945)
    American novelist known for Sister Carrie and An American Tragedy.

If you like Theodore…

Oliver— shares the vintage-revival charm and sophisticated feel
Henry— another presidential classic enjoying a comeback
Sebastian— equally distinguished multi-syllable classic
Felix— another vintage name with the same warm old-world appeal

Frequently Asked

What does the name Theodore mean?

Theodore comes from the Greek Theodoros, meaning 'gift of God,' combining theos (God) and doron (gift).

How do you pronounce Theodore?

Theodore is said THEE-uh-dor /ˈθiː.ə.dɔːr/ — three syllables, with stress on the first.

Is Theodore a boy or girl name?

Theodore is used almost exclusively as a boy's name; the feminine equivalent is Theodora.

How popular is Theodore?

Theodore re-entered the U.S. top ten boys' names around 2021 and continues to rise, driven by its classic yet warm appeal.