A Brief History of Tod

Tod is primarily a short form of the name Theodore, which itself derives from the Greek *theos* (god) and *doron* (gift), meaning “gift of God.” As a standalone name, Tod has a more recent history, gaining some popularity in the early to mid-20th century. It carries a sense of strength and simplicity due to its brevity.

Pronunciation Guide

IPA: /tɒd/

Phonetic: TAWD

Gender Identity

male

Variations and Nicknames

  • Theo (as a shortened form)
  • Ted (also from Theodore)

Famous Tods

  • Tod Browning — American film director

Cultural and Religious Significance

As a shortened form of Theodore, Tod shares the religious connotations associated with that name – linked to Saint Theodore. However, as a standalone name it doesn’t have strong specific cultural or religious ties beyond its association with the larger family of names derived from Theodore.

Geographic Popularity

Tod has seen moderate popularity in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States and the United Kingdom. It is not among the most common names but remains a recognizable and appreciated choice.

Names with Similar Vibes

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Tod a biblical name?

Indirectly, yes. It’s derived from Theodore, which is linked to Saint Theodore.

What does Tod mean?

It’s essentially a shortened form of Theodore, meaning ‘gift of God’.