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Theodora Girl

Popularity: #621 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

Pronunciationthee-OD-or-uh / /θiˈɔːdərə/

Greek; Latin

Meaning

Greek: gift of God; Latin: divine gift

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Theodora has its roots in the Greek language, derived from the elements "theos," meaning "god," and "doron," meaning "gift." Thus, Theodora can be interpreted as "gift of God." The name was adopted into Latin as Theodora and subsequently made its way into various languages, including English, through the influence of the Byzantine Empire and the spread of Christianity. Theodora has been used in various forms across cultures, but its core meaning has remained consistent throughout its history.

Historically, Theodora is notably associated with several prominent figures, including Empress Theodora of the Byzantine Empire, who reigned in the 6th century. She was the wife of Emperor Justinian I and played a significant role in the political and social reforms of the empire. Her influence is documented in various historical texts, including Procopius's "Secret History," which provides insight into her life and the power dynamics of the time. The name also appears in early Christian texts, where it was borne by several saints, further solidifying its religious significance.

Culturally, Theodora has been embraced in various traditions, often symbolizing strength and divine favor. The name has been used in literature and art, reflecting its enduring appeal across centuries. In addition to its historical figures, Theodora has inspired various diminutive forms, such as Dora, which have also found their place in different cultures. The name's rich etymological background and historical associations contribute to its lasting resonance in the cultural and religious landscape.

Trend Summary

Theodora has seen a gradual increase in popularity in the United States in recent years.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Thea
  • Dora

International Variants

  • Teodora (Spanish)
  • Teodora (Italian)
  • Theodora (English)
  • Theodora (Russian)

Famous people named Theodora

Theodora is a Byzantine empress best known for her influential role in the reign of Justinian I, the construction of the Hagia Sophia, and her advocacy for women's rights.

Fictional characters named Theodora

Theodora is a fictional character from the novel and film The Wizard of Oz. She is a good witch who helps Dorothy on her journey to return home.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Theodora was first seen in the United States in 1880. Theodora has ranked as high as #973 nationally, which occurred in 2022, and has been most popular in New York, California, Pennsylvania, Illinois, and Massachusetts. In the past 5 years the name Theodora has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Theodora (2024)

StateBirthsShare
NY 32
11%
CA 27
9%
TX 25
8%
PA 22
7%
IL 17
6%
OH 13
4%
FL 13
4%
WA 13
4%
MA 12
4%
WI 11
4%
NC 10
3%
NJ 10
3%
CO 8
3%
IN 8
3%
VA 8
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188011
18815
188311
18846
188518
18868
188712
188818
188918
189026
189123
189222
189315
189420
189528
189621
189720
189829
189916
190024
190119
190224
190324
190439
190540
190641
190737
190852
190942
191040
191150
191260
191387
191478
1915129
1916122
1917129
1918166
1919133
1920175
1921184
1922172
1923158
1924177
1925153
1926131
1927156
1928150
1929141
1930114
1931108
1932115
193390
193482
193586
193660
1937167
1938146
1939131
1940126
1941140
1942189
1943141
1944140
1945142
1946125
1947143
1948131
1949134
1950104
1951104
1952125
1953117
1954102
1955100
1956104
195785
195890
1959110
196083
196188
196283
196375
196485
196563
196670
196769
196843
196956
197041
197152
197255
197354
197450
197546
197642
197737
197830
197929
198041
198135
198238
198342
198440
198549
198651
198749
198841
198942
199039
199136
199242
199358
199449
199554
199646
199733
199852
199948
200044
200137
200247
200352
200444
200541
200649
200747
200841
200945
201047
201161
201268
201396
201485
201581
2016108
2017107
2018159
2019314
2020328
2021387
2022426
2023363
2024343