Théodore

Théodore is a masculine given name in French, the form of Theodore. It derives from the Greek Theodoros, from the elements theos meaning “god” and doron meaning “gift,” thus commonly interpreted as “gift of God.” The name has been used since medieval times and remained common in France and other French-speaking areas, particularly in the 19th century. In contemporary times it is less common, though it continues to be used and is associated with traditional naming.

Variants exist across languages, including English Theodore, Italian Teodoro, Spanish Teodoro, Portuguese Teodoro, and Dutch Theodoor. The name is primarily masculine in usage, with the feminine forms Théodora or Theodora appearing in various contexts.

Notable people named Théodore include:

- Théodore Géricault (1791–1824), French painter and a leading figure of Romanticism.

- Théodore Botrel (1868–1925), French poet and songwriter known for works about Brittany.

- Théodore Monod (1902–2000), French naturalist, explorer and conservationist.

- Théodore Roosevelt (1858–1919), American statesman and the 26th president of the United States; in French usage, his name is rendered Théodore Roosevelt.