Dylan vs Theodore

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Dylan

Boy #28 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"son of the sea"

Origin: Welsh mythology

Cultural Roots

Welsh English American Irish

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#28
Total SSA Count
7,464
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Dyl

Playground Safety Score

All Clear

Popularity Comparison

Dylan Rank #28
Theodore Rank #4

Theodore is more popular, ranked #4 vs #28 for Dylan.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Dylan ___

  • Dylan James
  • Dylan Thomas
  • Dylan Lee
  • Dylan Ryan
  • Dylan Paul
  • Dylan Michael

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 Dylan

Owen Rowan Nora Fiona Callum

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 Dylan or Theodore more popular?

Theodore is more popular, ranked #4 compared to Dylan at #28 in the United States.

What do Dylan and Theodore mean?

Dylan means "son of the sea" (Welsh mythology origin). Theodore means "divine gift" (Greek origin).

Are Dylan and Theodore boy or girl names?

Dylan is primarily a boy name. Theodore is primarily a boy name.

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