Theophorus

Theophorus is a masculine given name of Greek origin. It derives from the elements theos, meaning “god,” and phoros, meaning “bearing” or “carrying,” so the name can be interpreted as “god-bearer” or “one who bears God.” The name has ancient roots and appears in Greek literature and Christian traditions.

In Christian usage, Theophorus is the name of several saints and clerics recorded in Latin and Eastern Orthodox sources, giving the name continued presence in hagiographies and liturgical calendars. The form was Latinized in Western texts, and in Greek it is rendered Theophoros or Theoforos. English-language texts typically use Theophorus, while modern Greek often uses Theoforos.

Notable instances of the name are primarily found in religious contexts, where it is associated with early martyrs and church figures. Because of its antiquity and its appearance in various hagiographical traditions, Theophorus has been commonly encountered in scholarly discussions of Christian names, saints’ calendars, and medieval Latin manuscripts.

Beyond religious contexts, Theophorus has appeared intermittently as a given name in historical records and genealogies, though it remains relatively uncommon in contemporary usage. Related forms in other languages include Theophore in some Latin or Romance-language contexts, and the modern Greek form Theoforos. The name continues to be of interest to those studying Greek etymology, onomastics, and Christian antiquity. See also: Theophorus (name).