Holding steady, #12,008 for boys today.
Popularity of Tod since 1915
Babies named Tod per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 17 |
| 1920s | 29 |
| 1930s | 72 |
| 1940s | 293 |
| 1950s | 1,451 |
| 1960s | 3,996 |
| 1970s | 1,140 |
| 1980s | 360 |
| 1990s | 219 |
| 2000s | 84 |
| 2010s | 36 |
| 2020s | 10 |
Meaning & origin
Tod is a succinct and straightforward name, primarily a variant of the more familiar Todd. Its usage has been sparse, with a peak rank of 12,008 in 2025 and the highest recorded occurrences in 1963. The name has held a stable trajectory over recent decades, never experiencing a surge or revival. While it shares its root with the surname meaning 'fox', Tod has remained in the background of American naming trends, appealing to those seeking a short, traditional-sounding name with a naturalistic touch.
Tod is predominantly a variant of the surname Todd, which itself derives from Middle English 'todde' meaning 'fox'. The surname likely originated as a nickname for someone thought to resemble a fox in cunning or appearance. In the 20th century, Tod saw modest use as a given name, particularly in the United States, though it has remained less common than the Todd spelling.
Where Tod is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Variants: Todd
Sibling names for Tod
Names that share Tod's style, for a brother or sister.
