Ellen vs Theodore

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Ellen

Girl #1,032 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"sunlight, moon (alternate etymology)"

Origin: Ancient Greek

Cultural Roots

English American Scottish Irish

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#1,032
Total SSA Count
244
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Ellie, Nell

Playground Safety Score

All Clear

Popularity Comparison

Ellen Rank #1,032
Theodore Rank #4

Theodore is more popular, ranked #4 vs #1032 for Ellen.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Ellen ___

  • Ellen Grace
  • Ellen Marie
  • Ellen Louise
  • Ellen Ann
  • Ellen Jane
  • Ellen Claire

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 Ellen

Alice Clara Hugh Arthur Margaret

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 Ellen or Theodore more popular?

Theodore is more popular, ranked #4 compared to Ellen at #1032 in the United States.

What do Ellen and Theodore mean?

Ellen means "sunlight, moon (alternate etymology)" (Ancient Greek origin). Theodore means "divine gift" (Greek origin).

Are Ellen and Theodore boy or girl names?

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

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