Teddy is a name of English origin, derived from the Germanic name Theodore, which means "gift of God." It has been used as a given name since the Middle Ages but was not particularly popular until the late 19th and early 20th centuries when it became fashionable among American families.
The name Teddy gained significant popularity during this period due in part to its association with President Theodore Roosevelt. Born on October 27, 1858, Roosevelt was the 26th president of the United States from 1901 to 1909. He was known for his adventurous spirit and rugged persona, which earned him the nickname "Teddy" among friends and family members.
The name Teddy also became popular because it was seen as a more familiar and friendly version of Theodore. It was often used as a nickname or diminutive form of the full name but eventually gained recognition as a standalone given name in its own right.
Today, Teddy remains a popular choice for parents looking to give their son a strong yet approachable name with a rich history behind it. According to data from the Social Security Administration, Teddy has consistently ranked among the top 1000 boys' names in the United States since the early 2000s.
In addition to its association with President Roosevelt, the name Teddy is also famous for being the inspiration behind the popular stuffed animal known as a "teddy bear." The story goes that while on a hunting trip in Mississippi in 1902, Roosevelt refused to shoot a young bear cub, earning him the nickname "Teddy" and inspiring Brooklyn toy shop owner Morris Michtom to create his now-famous teddy bear in his honor.
While Teddy may have originated as a masculine name, it has also been used occasionally for girls since the late 19th century. However, it remains much more commonly used as a boy's name today. Overall, Teddy is a classic yet approachable name with a long history and rich cultural significance behind it.
"Teddy was quite popular during the early to mid-20th century, with over 2,000 births recorded annually between 1914 and 1967. The name peaked in popularity in 1928 with 388 births. However, since the late 1960s, its usage has significantly declined, with fewer than 100 births per year recorded since 1995."