Theodore vs William

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

William

Boy #10 Most Popular 3 Syllables

Meaning

"resolute protector, strong-willed guardian"

Origin: Germanic

Cultural Roots

English German French

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#10
Total SSA Count
10,596
Syllables
3
Formality
Formal
Nicknames
Will, Bill, Billy

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for William →

Popularity Comparison

Theodore Rank #4
William Rank #10

Theodore is more popular, ranked #4 vs #10 for William.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Theodore ___

  • Theodore James
  • Theodore William
  • Theodore Alexander
  • Theodore John
  • Theodore Henry
  • Theodore Arthur

William ___

  • William James
  • William Thomas
  • William Henry
  • William Alexander
  • William Edward
  • William Charles

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Theodore

Olivia Charlotte Amelia Eleanor Oliver

If you choose William

Charlotte Eleanor Amelia Olivia Henry

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 Theodore or William more popular?

Theodore is more popular, ranked #4 compared to William at #10 in the United States.

What do Theodore and William mean?

Theodore means "divine gift" (Greek origin). William means "resolute protector, strong-willed guardian" (Germanic origin).

Are Theodore and William boy or girl names?

Theodore is primarily a boy name. William is primarily a boy name.

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