Theophilus is a unique and historic name of Greek origin. It is derived from the Greek word "theophiles," which translates to "loving God." This name has been used throughout history, with some notable figures bearing it.
The earliest known use of Theophilus was in the 1st century AD for a bishop who played a significant role in the early Christian church. He wrote several letters that were included in the New Testament. Since then, Theophilus has been a name associated with piety and faith.
In various languages and cultures, Theophilus has been adapted differently:
* In Greek, it is spelled "Theophilos" (Θεόφιλος).
* In Latin, it appears as "Theophilus."
* In English-speaking countries, it is typically pronounced as "THEE-oh-fye-lus."
Despite its historic usage and religious connotations, Theophilus remains relatively rare today. It has never been among the top 1000 names in the United States, making it a unique choice for parents looking for an unusual yet meaningful name.
In conclusion, Theophilus is a name with deep roots in history and religion, offering a distinct and significant option for those seeking a special name for their child. Its meaning, "loving God," serves as a constant reminder of faith and devotion.
The name Theophilus has seen a significant rise in popularity over the past century in the United States. According to the statistics provided, there were only 5 births each year between 1882 and 1888, with no more than 7 births per year until 1913.
However, beginning in 1913, the number of annual births with the name Theophilus started to increase dramatically. There were 15 births that year, followed by 20 births each in 1915 and 1917. This trend continued throughout the early 20th century, with peaks of 28 births in 1921 and 30 births in 1924.
The popularity of Theophilus seemed to wane somewhat during the mid-20th century, with the number of annual births fluctuating between single digits and low double digits from 1935 to 1976. However, a notable spike occurred in 1977, with 32 births that year.
In recent decades, Theophilus has once again seen an increase in popularity. There were more than 20 births each year between 1992 and 2023, with the highest number of births occurring in 2022 (67) and 2023 (63). Overall, there have been a total of 2,325 births with the name Theophilus in the United States since 1882.
These statistics demonstrate that while Theophilus may not have always been a popular name, its popularity has waxed and waned over time. Despite its ups and downs, it is clear that Theophilus remains a enduring choice for parents in the United States, with many families choosing to honor this name tradition across generations.