Harlan vs Theodore

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Harlan

Boy #668 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"rocky land, stony ground"

Origin: Old English

Cultural Roots

American English

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#668
Total SSA Count
411
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Harl

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for Harlan →

Popularity Comparison

Harlan Rank #668
Theodore Rank #4

Theodore is more popular, ranked #4 vs #668 for Harlan.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Harlan ___

  • Harlan James
  • Harlan Lee
  • Harlan Wade
  • Harlan Scott
  • Harlan Cole
  • Harlan Grant

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 Harlan

Weston Hattie Arlo Eloise Beau

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 Harlan or Theodore more popular?

Theodore is more popular, ranked #4 compared to Harlan at #668 in the United States.

What do Harlan and Theodore mean?

Harlan means "rocky land, stony ground" (Old English origin). Theodore means "divine gift" (Greek origin).

Are Harlan and Theodore boy or girl names?

Harlan is primarily a boy name. Theodore is primarily a boy name.

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← Full profile: Harlan ← Full profile: Theodore Browse all baby names