Arlen vs Theodore

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Arlen

Boy #1,688 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"pledge, oath"

Origin: Irish Gaelic

Cultural Roots

Irish American

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#1,688
Total SSA Count
99
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Arl, Ary, Arie

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for Arlen →

Popularity Comparison

Arlen Rank #1,688
Theodore Rank #4

Theodore is more popular, ranked #4 vs #1688 for Arlen.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Arlen ___

  • Arlen James
  • Arlen Scott
  • Arlen Ray
  • Arlen Dean
  • Arlen Cole

Theodore ___

  • Theodore James
  • Theodore William
  • Theodore Alexander
  • Theodore John
  • Theodore Henry
  • Theodore Arthur

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Arlen

Marlowe Harlan Cora Vivian Dale

If you choose Theodore

Olivia Charlotte Amelia Eleanor Oliver

Which Name Fits Your Family?

Answer 3 quick questions and we'll help you decide.

1. Which style feels more like your family?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Arlen or Theodore more popular?

Theodore is more popular, ranked #4 compared to Arlen at #1688 in the United States.

What do Arlen and Theodore mean?

Arlen means "pledge, oath" (Irish Gaelic origin). Theodore means "divine gift" (Greek origin).

Are Arlen and Theodore boy or girl names?

Arlen is primarily a boy name. Theodore is primarily a boy name.

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