“From the story or tale of a man named Telford.” — Associated with a town in Shropshire
United Kingdom origin · Boy name
♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls
#1576US 2023
624Births / yr
→Stable
348All-time births
📅 Since 190300
How to pronounce Telford
TELF·erd
/ˈtɛlf.ɝd/ · stress on TELF · 2 syllables
“From the story or tale of a man named Telford.”
Associated with a town in Shropshire · United Kingdom origin
What does Telford mean and where does it come from?
Telford is a surname and given name of English origin, deriving from the Old English elements 'telg' (to tell) and 'ford' (river crossing or river bank). It is primarily associated with a town in Shropshire, England, named Telford, which was developed in the 1960s and named after the engineer Thomas
Cultural significance
Telford has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in United Kingdom-speaking communities, where it reflects values of from the story or tale of a man named telford..
Peak popularity
Reached #1305 in 1903 — currently #1576 in the US.
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Related Reading
United Kingdom-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Holding steady — currently #1576 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1915–2023#1576 · Top 1.2%
1915
1920
1925
1930
1940
1945
1950
1955
1975
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1576
624
▲ up 5 · +3% births
2022
#1581
604
▲ up 5 · +5% births
2021
#1586
574
▲ up 3991 · +11380% births
1975
#5577
5
▼ down 2291 · -29% births
1955
#3286
7
▲ up 515 · +40% births
1950
#3801
5
▼ down 337
1945
#3464
5
▼ down 915 · -44% births
1940
#2549
9
▲ up 558 · +13% births
1930
#3107
8
▼ down 606 · -33% births
1925
#2501
12
▲ up 333 · +20% births
1920
#2834
10
▼ down 134 · +11% births
1915
#2700
9
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Telford
2023Rank #1576
624
#2880
↗Rising
1915 - 202312 years
The story of Telford
Telford entered American naming records in 1903 and has been in use for over 121 years. With 348 total births recorded, Telford remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2700 in 1915 to #1576 in 2023.
Telford means "From the story or tale of a man named Telford." — a name rooted in United Kingdom tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Telford?
Telford is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Telford?
Telford originates from United Kingdom tradition. United Kingdom names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Telford?
Telford is a two-syllable name pronounced T EH1 L F ER0 D. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Telford a common or rare name?
Telford is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Telford
For a sister
Telford & Lillian♡
Telford & Arthur♡
Telford & Evie♡
Telford & Archie♡
For a brother
Telford & Lillian♡
Telford & Arthur♡
Telford & Edward♡
Telford & Evie♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#1576
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
—
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