Teddy

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Teddy

Gender Boy
Origin English
Letters 5
Syllables 2
Pronunciation TED-ee

Teddy, which has 5 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of English origin.

Meaning of Teddy

Divine gift

The name Teddy is derived from the name Edward, which is of Old English origin and means "wealthy guard". It is a diminutive form of Edward, and is often used as a nickname or a pet name for someone named Edward.

Save
Rate:
(3/5 from 42 votes)
Meaning Divine gift
Origin English
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #898 in 2024 Rising Fast
Rarity (US) Rare (Top 1000)
Era Vintage (1930s)

Background & History of The Name Teddy

The name Teddy is a commonly used nickname for the masculine given name Theodore. It is derived from the English word "teddy bear," which originated from an incident involving President Theodore Roosevelt. In November 1902, President Roosevelt went on a hunting trip to Mississippi, during which he refused to kill a wounded bear that had been tied to a tree. The event was later illustrated in a political cartoon, which inspired Morris Michtom, a Russian immigrant to the United States, to create a plush toy bear and name it "Teddy's bear" in honor of the president's compassionate act. This incident gained significant media attention, and the term "teddy bear" soon became widely recognized.

Theodore, the full name from which Teddy is derived, has a rich history and meaning. It comes from the Greek name "Theodoros," which translates to "god's gift." The name Theodore has been popular in various cultures throughout history, including ancient Greece and early Christianity. Many notable individuals have borne the name Teddy or Theodore, such as Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States, and Theodore Levitt, an influential economist and business professor.

The name Teddy has gained popularity as a standalone name in recent years, with many parents choosing it for their children. Its appeal lies in its endearing and playful nature, as well as its association with the beloved teddy bear. Teddy also has a timeless quality, providing a sense of nostalgia and warmth. Additionally, the name's connection to President Theodore Roosevelt adds a touch of significance and historical relevance.

In summary, the name Teddy is a nickname for Theodore, inspired by the memorable incident involving President Roosevelt and a bear. Its association with the teddy bear and the compassion it represents has made Teddy a popular given name. With its delightful charm and historical significance, Teddy continues to be a favored choice for parents seeking a playful and meaningful name for their child.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Teddy over the years.

Check Initials

See what initials Teddy would create with your last name.

Nicknames

Common nicknames and short forms for Teddy.

Save This Name

Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.

Create Free Account

Partner Matching

Rate names with your partner and find the ones you both love.

Learn More

Sibling Matcher

Find names that pair well with your existing children's names.

Find Sibling Names