Alternatives to Theodore

Theodoric feels prehistoric, though with short form Theo one of the hottest names around, this old German names for boys may soon feel new again.

Liodor is the Leo and Theodore mash-up you didn't know you needed — with authentic Russian roots! It ultimately derives from the Greek name Heliodoros.

As Polydoros, this rare Greek name belonged to several figures in Greek mythology, including a son of King Priam of Troy.

This variation of Theodore is familiar here mostly via the great Russian novelist Dostoyevsky. It was also the name of three early tsars of Russia.

This Theodore sound-alike derives from the name Diodorus, associated with the ancient Greek historian Diodorus Siculus.

Salvadore is a variant spelling of Salvador, a masculine name with Spanish and Portuguese origins meaning 'savior' or 'rescuer.' The name has deep religious significance in Christian traditions, referencing Jesus Christ as the Savior. This alternative spelling with an 'e' at the end gives the name a slightly different visual appearance while maintaining its pronunciation and meaning. Salvadore has a romantic, Mediterranean quality and carries associations with passionate artistic expression, partly due to famous namesakes like the surrealist painter Salvador Dalí. While less common than the standard spelling, Salvadore appeals to parents seeking a name with spiritual significance, cultural richness, and a touch of distinctive flair.

A streamlined spelling of the classical British Thackeray — no wonder this is the more common variation in the US. Thackery makes a preppier, more unusual alternative to Zachary.

Feodore is a masculine name with noble Russian roots, serving as a variant of the more common Theodore. Derived from Greek elements meaning 'gift of God,' Feodore carries the same profound meaning but with a distinctly Slavic character. The name was borne by several Russian nobles and royals, including Grand Duke Feodor Alexandrovich of Russia. While Theodore remains widely used internationally, Feodore offers a more uncommon alternative with historical depth. The name experienced limited popularity in Imperial Russia but has remained rare elsewhere. Feodore combines aristocratic heritage with a melodic quality, featuring the gentle 'f' sound opening to rich vowels. For parents seeking a name with royal connections and classic origins beyond the common rankings, Feodore presents an elegant option.

You’re most likely to find this Theodore cognate in Eastern Europe, where it ranks among the top names for boys in the Czech Republic, Slovenia, Poland, and Romania. The nickname Teo is a real winner.

Theodoro is a masculine name with ancient Greek origins, derived from the elements "theos" (god) and "doron" (gift), literally meaning "gift of God." It represents a Latin or Spanish-influenced variant of Theodore, which has been carried by numerous saints, scholars, and leaders throughout history. The name conveys qualities of divine blessing, wisdom, and leadership. While Theodore is more common in English-speaking countries, Theodoro maintains stronger usage in Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian-speaking regions. The name offers a distinguished historical lineage with a melodic quality. Its multicultural appeal and timeless meaning make it a thoughtful choice for parents seeking a name with both gravitas and spiritual significance.