Tenacious T Names [boys]
- Theobald
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"courageous people"Description:
This is one of the least known or used of the Theo names, quite possibly because of its last syllable. In Samuel Butler's 1903 novel The Way of All Flesh, there is a clergyman character named Theobald Pontifex.
- Theodore
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"gift of God"Description:
Classic and elegant but with boyish charm, Theodore has become hit name in recent years, vaulting into the US Top 10 in 2021 for the first time ever and into the Top 5 in 2024. A favorite in English speaking countries, it also ranks highly across the UK and Ireland, and in Canada, New Zealand, and Australia.
- Theodosios
Description:
Theodosios is a masculine name with ancient Greek origins, meaning 'gift of God' from the elements 'theos' (god) and 'dosis' (giving). It carries significant historical weight as the name of several Byzantine emperors and Christian saints, including Theodosius the Great who made Christianity the state religion of the Roman Empire. The name has remained in consistent though modest use in Greece and among Greek Orthodox communities. Theodosios offers the potential for friendly nicknames like Theo while maintaining its distinguished classical roots. With its rhythmic syllables and meaningful etymology, the name conveys both scholarly dignity and spiritual significance, embodying a connection to classical civilization and religious heritage.
- Theophilos
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"loved by God"Description:
Multisyllabic New Testament relic dimly recalled from the Thornton Wilder novel Theophilus North.
- Theory
Origin:
English word name from GreekMeaning:
"idea, speculation"Description:
Could be an unconventional route to Theo.
- Thibaut
Origin:
French variant of TheobaldDescription:
A common first and last name in France and, especially, Belgium, more often spelled Thibault.
- Thomas
Origin:
AramaicMeaning:
"twin"Description:
A solid classic with plenty of history, Thomas strikes the balance between strength and gentleness. A favorite in the UK, a staple in France, and Australia, and never absent from the US Top 100, Thomas feels like a safe bet and a name that fits into any era.
- Thor
Origin:
Norse and ScandinavianMeaning:
"thunder"Description:
Thor, the powerful name of the Norse god of thunder, strength and rain, would make a bold statement. Long a comic book staple, Thor has now invaded the big screen, and could land on birth certificates as well.
- Thorald
Description:
Thorald is a masculine name of Norse origin, combining the elements 'Thor,' the name of the god of thunder in Norse mythology, and 'ald' meaning 'rule' or 'power.' This ancient name was brought to England during the Viking invasions and remained in use through the medieval period. A variant of Thorvald, Thorald carries strong connotations of strength and authority. While never achieving widespread popularity in modern times, it has persisted as a rare choice that connects to Scandinavian heritage. The name offers the distinctive nickname Thor while providing a more formal complete name. Thorald appeals to parents interested in names with historical depth and mythological connections.
- Thoreau
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"strength of a bull"Description:
A dashing French surname name most famously borne by Henry David Thoreau, an American naturalist, writer and philosopher who influenced such notable figures as Leo Tolstoy, Mahatma Gandhi, and Martin Luther King Jr. The most common modern American pronunciation is "thor-OH", with emphasis on the final syllable, although Thoreau himself pronounced it "THOR-oh".
- Thorfin
Description:
Thorfin is a strong masculine name with deep Norse roots, derived from the powerful god Thor and 'finnr' meaning 'finder' or 'wanderer.' Historically, it was borne by notable Viking leaders including Thorfinn Karlsefni, who led expeditions to North America. The variant Thorfinn is slightly more common, with Thorfin offering a more streamlined version. The name evokes images of Viking strength, exploration, and Norse mythology, appealing to parents drawn to names with historical depth and powerful associations. Though rare in modern usage, Thorfin has maintained a consistent presence in Scandinavian countries and regions with Norse heritage. Its distinctive sound and spelling make it memorable, while its historical connections provide substance and character, making it an uncommon yet meaningful choice for parents seeking a name with ancient strength.
- Thorsten
Description:
Thorsten is a Germanic masculine name variation of Torsten, derived from the Old Norse name Þórsteinn (Thor's stone). It combines the elements 'Thor' (the Norse god of thunder) and 'stein' (stone), symbolizing strength and durability. Primarily used in Germany, Denmark, and other Scandinavian countries, Thorsten gained moderate popularity throughout the 20th century. While not among the most common names today, it maintains steady usage in Germanic countries where traditional Nordic names are valued. In English-speaking countries, Thorsten remains relatively uncommon but recognized, often appreciated for its strong consonant sounds and distinctive Norse heritage.
- Thorvald
Description:
Thorvald is a masculine name of Old Norse origin, combining the elements 'Thor' (the Norse god of thunder) and 'vald' meaning 'ruler' or 'power.' Thus, the name essentially means 'Thor's ruler' or 'power of Thor.' With deep roots in Viking culture and Scandinavian heritage, Thorvald was borne by several notable Norse historical figures, including Thorvald Eiriksson, who was one of the first Europeans to attempt settlement in North America. While common in medieval Scandinavia, the name remains relatively rare today, even in Nordic countries, though it still sees some use in Norway, Iceland, and Denmark. Thorvald carries a distinctly powerful, ancient quality with connections to Norse mythology and Viking heritage, making it appealing for parents seeking a strong name with historical depth.
- Timaeus
Origin:
Latin from GreekMeaning:
"honor"Description:
Timaeus is an ancient name that appears in both Plato's Dialogues and in the New Testament. Might make a so-old-it's-new-again version of Timothy. The feminine variation is Timea.
- Timon
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"reward, honor"Description:
Kids would be more likely to associate this name with the hyperactive meercat in "The Lion King" than with the ancient Greek philosopher or Shakespearean character, which could cause playground problems.
- Tivadar
Description:
Tivadar is a masculine Hungarian name derived from the Greek name Theodore, which means 'gift of God.' This distinctive name has been used in Hungary for centuries and represents the Hungarian cultural adaptation of a classical name. Notable bearers include Tivadar Puskás, a Hungarian inventor and telephone pioneer, and Tivadar Csontváry Kosztka, a renowned Hungarian painter. While primarily found in Hungary and among Hungarian diaspora communities, the name maintains a strong cultural identity. Tivadar carries an air of distinction and European heritage, combining traditional roots with a unique sound that distinguishes it from more common Theodore variants.
- Tobias
Origin:
Greek from HebrewMeaning:
"God is good"Description:
Tobias is one of a number of s-ending boys' names that are riding a wave of popularity. With its Old Testament-Dickensian feel, it's a name with a distinguished pedigree.
- Tolliver
Origin:
English and Scottish occupational nameMeaning:
"metalworker"Description:
If you're tired of Oliver, you might consider this energetic three-syllable surname instead, so you could have a little Tolly instead of an Ollie.
- Topher
Origin:
Diminutive of ChristopherDescription:
The new kid on the block in terms of Christopher short forms, it was introduced into the mix by actor Topher Grace, who didn't like Chris.
- Traveler
Origin:
Occupational nameDescription:
One of the less obvious newly plausible occupational names, could instill a sense of adventure in a child.