A 1880s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Theodosia since 1880
Babies named Theodosia per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1918, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Theodosia's real moment was 1880.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 84 |
| 1890s | 110 |
| 1900s | 105 |
| 1910s | 270 |
| 1920s | 300 |
| 1930s | 150 |
| 1940s | 150 |
| 1950s | 129 |
| 1960s | 74 |
| 1970s | 64 |
| 1980s | 24 |
| 1990s | 12 |
| 2000s | 6 |
| 2010s | 49 |
| 2020s | 178 |
Meaning & origin
Theodosia is a rare but striking Greek name that has quietly resurfaced. First recorded in 1880 (its peak year), it had a modest early presence before fading. Since 2014, however, it has been rising, with a recent rank of 4067 (1 in 45,922 girls). Its revival echoes the broader trend toward revival names from the 1880s, though it remains highly uncommon. The name carries a strong religious and historical lineage, often associated with early Christian martyrs, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a name with depth and elegance.
Theodosia is the feminine form of Theodosius, derived from Greek 'theos' (god) and 'dosis' (giving). It was used in the Byzantine Empire and later in Eastern Orthodox contexts, including a 4th-century martyr. The name gained some usage in 18th-century England and America.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Thea, Dosia, Theo
Variants: Feodosia
Sibling names for Theodosia
Names that share Theodosia's style, for a brother or sister.
