Eleanor vs Theodore

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Eleanor

Girl #14 Most Popular 4 Syllables

Meaning

"compassion, sympathy"

Origin: Greek

Cultural Roots

English French Spanish American

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#14
Total SSA Count
7,127
Syllables
4
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Ellie, Nell, Nora

Playground Safety Score

All Clear

Popularity Comparison

Eleanor Rank #14
Theodore Rank #4

Theodore is more popular, ranked #4 vs #14 for Eleanor.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Eleanor ___

  • Eleanor Rose
  • Eleanor Jane
  • Eleanor Claire
  • Eleanor Grace
  • Eleanor Mae
  • Eleanor Ruth

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 Eleanor

Oliver Theodore Cecily Arthur Harriet

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 Eleanor or Theodore more popular?

Theodore is more popular, ranked #4 compared to Eleanor at #14 in the United States.

What do Eleanor and Theodore mean?

Eleanor means "compassion, sympathy" (Greek origin). Theodore means "divine gift" (Greek origin).

Are Eleanor and Theodore boy or girl names?

Eleanor is primarily a girl name. Theodore is primarily a boy name.

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