PopularGreekmale

Theo

Short form of Theodore or Theophilus, from Greek "theos" meaning God and "doron" meaning gift

Popularity

80

/100

At a glance

Theo is a boy name with Greek roots, most associated with the idea of short form of theodore or theophilus, from greek "theos" meaning god and "doron" meaning gift.

Meaning

Short form of Theodore or Theophilus, from Greek "theos" meaning God and "doron" meaning gift

Origin

Greek

Gender

Boy / Male

Pronunciation

THEE-oh

Name story

What Theo communicates

Theo is a boy name of Greek origin meaning "Short form of Theodore or Theophilus, from Greek "theos" meaning God and "doron" meaning gift". That gives it a clear, rooted emotional tone that is easy to connect with and quick to remember.

It is pronounced THEE-oh and sits at a popularity score of 80/100 in our index, which suggests how widely it is chosen today. Names in this range tend to appeal to parents who want something recognizable yet still distinctive.

If Theo feels close but not quite right, the related names and theme links below lead to options that share its Greek heritage or its core idea of "Short form of Theodore or Theophilus, from Greek "theos" meaning God and "doron" meaning gift". Comparing a few side by side is the easiest way to settle on the name that fits your family best.

Theme links

Explore the same idea

Famous People Named Theo

  • TTheo van Gogh (art dealer, brother of Vincent)
  • TTheo James (actor)

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Share the Theo name card

A free, Instagram-ready card with the meaning of Theo. Download it or share it with family and friends.

Theo name meaning "Short form of Theodore or Theophilus, from Greek "theos" meaning God and "doron" meaning gift" - Greek male name share card | NameMeanings

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Theo mean?

The name Theo means "Short form of Theodore or Theophilus, from Greek "theos" meaning God and "doron" meaning gift". It is a name of Greek origin that has been carried across many cultures and generations. The meaning reflects qualities valued in Greek naming tradition, which is part of why parents who want a name with a clear, positive sense often choose Theo.

What is the origin of the name Theo?

Theo originates from Greek. Names of Greek origin tend to carry deep historical and cultural significance, shaped by language, religion, and tradition over centuries. Theo fits that pattern: its roots give it the meaning "Short form of Theodore or Theophilus, from Greek "theos" meaning God and "doron" meaning gift" and connect it to a long lineage of related names that share the same heritage.

Is Theo a popular name?

Theo appears on baby-name popularity charts across many English-speaking countries. Its usage has shifted across generations, rising and falling with cultural moments, famous bearers, and naming trends. You can see where Theo sits relative to other names on its popularity score above, and compare it with similar names in the same style.

What names are similar to Theo?

Names similar to Theo include those with shared origins, related meanings, or a similar sound and rhythm. The related names and similar-meaning sections above list strong alternatives, so if you love Theo but want options, you can explore names that carry the same Greek heritage or the same idea of "Short form of Theodore or Theophilus, from Greek "theos" meaning God and "doron" meaning gift".

How do you pronounce Theo?

Theo is pronounced "THEE-oh". Pronunciation can vary slightly by region and language, but this guide reflects the most common way the name Theo is said.

Is Theo a boy or a girl name?

Theo is most commonly used as a boy name. Like many names it can cross gender lines depending on culture, era, and family preference, but its Greek roots and traditional usage are reflected on this page. If you want a clearly gender-neutral option, browse our unisex names for alternatives.

What does the name Theo symbolize?

The name Theo symbolizes "Short form of Theodore or Theophilus, from Greek "theos" meaning God and "doron" meaning gift". That theme gives Theo a distinct emotional tone that many parents connect with, and it links the name to a wider family of names built on the same idea. Exploring names that share the meaning "Short form of Theodore or Theophilus, from Greek "theos" meaning God and "doron" meaning gift" is a good way to find alternatives with a similar feeling.

Is Theo a good baby name?

Theo is a meaningful choice: it carries the meaning "Short form of Theodore or Theophilus, from Greek "theos" meaning God and "doron" meaning gift", has clear Greek heritage, and a recognizable pronunciation. Whether it is the right baby name depends on your taste, family traditions, and how it pairs with your surname.