Ted Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Ted
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name TED. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Ted
Gender
Male
Origin
Christian
Lucky Number
2
Meaning of the Name
Ted is a diminutive of Theodore, which means 'gift of God' in Greek, reflecting a Christian tradition of names with divine connotations.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Moon
Positive Nature
Diplomatic, friendly, artistic, empathetic.
Negative Traits
Over-sensitive, moody, indecisive, prone to self-pity.
Lucky Colours
Green, cream, white.
Lucky Days
Monday.
Lucky Stones
Pearl, moonstone.
Harmony Numbers
1, 3, 4.
Best Suited Professions
Diplomats, mediators, caregivers, artists.
What People Like About You
Cooperative spirit, friendliness, artistic talent.
Famous People Named Ted
Ted Williams
Baseball Player
Last MLB player to hit over .400 in a season, 19-time All-Star
Ted Turner
Media Mogul
Founded CNN and revolutionized 24-hour news broadcasting
Ted Danson
Actor
Multiple Emmy Awards for Cheers and The Good Place
Ted Hughes
Poet
British Poet Laureate and major figure in 20th century poetry
Name Variations & International Equivalents
Click on blue names to explore their detailed meanings. Gray names with will be available soon.
Cultural & Historical Significance
Throughout the 20th century, Ted maintained its popularity as a name that balanced traditional values with modern accessibility. The mid-century saw numerous prominent Teds in politics, sports, and entertainment, further cementing its place in the cultural lexicon. In recent decades, while less common than its peak years, Ted has experienced a revival as part of the vintage name trend, appealing to parents seeking names with historical weight but contemporary feel. The name's continued presence in popular culture, from Ted Mosby in 'How I Met Your Mother' to the comedic film 'Ted,' ensures its ongoing relevance and recognition across generations.
Extended Personality Analysis
People named Ted are commonly associated with a distinctive blend of reliability, practical intelligence, and approachable authority. The name suggests someone who embodies steady competence—the kind of person others naturally turn to for guidance and support. Teds are often perceived as having strong problem-solving abilities combined with emotional stability, making them effective in both professional and personal contexts. They tend to be the 'rock' in relationships and organizations, providing consistent support without seeking excessive attention or recognition.
This personality profile frequently includes traits of loyalty, dependability, and quiet confidence. Unlike more flamboyant names, Ted suggests substance over style—someone who gets things done without unnecessary drama. The bear symbolism associated with the name (from Teddy Bear) adds layers of protective instinct and comforting presence. Many Teds develop reputations as fair-minded individuals who balance strength with compassion, making them natural mediators and trusted advisors. Their approach to life tends to be methodical rather than impulsive, with a preference for building lasting structures whether in careers, relationships, or communities. This combination of traits often leads Teds to excel in fields requiring both technical expertise and interpersonal skills, such as engineering, management, education, or community leadership.
Modern Usage & Popularity
In contemporary naming practices, Ted occupies an interesting space between classic tradition and modern simplicity. While it ranked most popular in the United States during the 1940s and 1950s, it has maintained a steady presence and is currently experiencing a revival as part of the broader trend toward vintage names. Modern parents often choose Ted for its strong, single-syllable impact and its association with reliability and approachability. The name's usage has shifted from primarily being a nickname for Theodore to frequently standing as a given name in its own right. Current popularity data shows Ted ranking outside the top 200 names but maintaining consistent usage, particularly among parents seeking traditional male names that feel both grounded and contemporary. The name's cross-generational appeal—recognizable to older generations while feeling fresh to younger ones—makes it a strategic choice for parents balancing family tradition with modern sensibilities. Its strong phonetic qualities and easy pronunciation across languages contribute to its enduring international appeal.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
The name Ted carries profound symbolic weight derived from both its etymological roots and cultural associations. As a diminutive of Theodore, meaning 'gift of God,' it fundamentally represents divine blessing and purposeful existence. This spiritual dimension suggests that individuals bearing this name are seen as bringing special qualities or blessings into the world. The Teddy Roosevelt connection introduced powerful American symbolism—representing rugged individualism, progressive leadership, and conservation values. The subsequent 'Teddy Bear' phenomenon added layers of comfort, protection, and childhood innocence to the name's symbolic portfolio.
Metaphorically, Ted embodies the ideal balance between strength and gentleness. The bear symbolism represents protective power and wilderness strength, while the diminutive '-dy' ending and stuffed animal association introduce elements of comfort and approachability. This creates a rich symbolic tapestry where Ted represents the integration of seemingly opposite qualities: authority and accessibility, strength and compassion, leadership and service. In psychological terms, the name suggests someone who can bear heavy responsibilities while maintaining emotional warmth—a symbolic representation of mature masculinity that values both competence and connection. The name's historical connections to both Christian saints and American presidents further enrich its symbolic resonance as representing service-oriented leadership grounded in moral principles.