Billy vs Theodore

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Billy

Boy #1,051 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"resolute protector"

Origin: Old German via Norman French

Cultural Roots

English American Australian Irish

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#1,051
Total SSA Count
210
Syllables
2
Formality
Casual
Nicknames
Bill, Bills

Playground Safety Score

All Clear

Popularity Comparison

Billy Rank #1,051
Theodore Rank #4

Theodore is more popular, ranked #4 vs #1051 for Billy.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Billy ___

  • Billy Ray
  • Billy Joe
  • Billy Dean
  • Billy James
  • Billy Lee
  • Billy Gene

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 Billy

Bobby Tommy Jimmy Johnny Betty

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 Billy or Theodore more popular?

Theodore is more popular, ranked #4 compared to Billy at #1051 in the United States.

What do Billy and Theodore mean?

Billy means "resolute protector" (Old German via Norman French origin). Theodore means "divine gift" (Greek origin).

Are Billy and Theodore boy or girl names?

Billy is primarily a boy name. Theodore is primarily a boy name.

More Comparisons