Carlton vs Theodore

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Carlton

Boy #2,842 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"settlement of free men"

Origin: Old English

Cultural Roots

English American British

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#2,842
Total SSA Count
45
Syllables
2
Formality
Formal
Nicknames
Carl, Carl

Playground Safety Score

All Clear

Popularity Comparison

Carlton Rank #2,842
Theodore Rank #4

Theodore is more popular, ranked #4 vs #2842 for Carlton.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Carlton ___

  • Carlton James
  • Carlton Edward
  • Carlton Thomas
  • Carlton William
  • Carlton Alexander
  • Carlton Joseph

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 Carlton

Preston Reginald Clarence Victoria Adelaide

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 Carlton or Theodore more popular?

Theodore is more popular, ranked #4 compared to Carlton at #2842 in the United States.

What do Carlton and Theodore mean?

Carlton means "settlement of free men" (Old English origin). Theodore means "divine gift" (Greek origin).

Are Carlton and Theodore boy or girl names?

Carlton is primarily a boy name. Theodore is primarily a boy name.

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