Theodore

The name derives from the Greek elements theos and dōron. It was borne by several Byzantine rulers before crossing into English use during the medieval era. In the United States, it maintained a steady presence throughout the nineteenth century until the presidency of Theodore Roosevelt accelerated its popularity.

The name reads as an antique retrieved from storage and immediately put back into heavy municipal rotation. On hearing it, the ear anticipates a retired rail commissioner rather than someone still mastering a spoon. The three syllables carry an air of parliamentary procedure, though half of all living bearers currently sleep in cribs. It remains one of the few names at rank four that sounds older than the telephone.