What does Tod mean and where does it come from?
Tod is an Old English name derived from the word 'todde,' meaning 'fox.' The name has historical significance in English-speaking countries dating back to the medieval period. It often carried connotations of cunning and cleverness, as foxes are commonly associated with these traits in folklore. The
Cultural significance
Tod has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of fox.
Peak popularity
Reached #331 in 1962 — currently #13985 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Tod?
Tod works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Tod Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Tod Rose
Floral · soft ending
Tod Claire
French influence · crisp
Tod Jane
Literary · strong
Tod Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Tod right now?
Falling — down 5101 spots — currently #13985 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #13985 | 5 | ▼ down 5101 · -37% births |
| 2010 | #8884 | 8 | ▼ down 490 |
| 2005 | #8394 | 8 | ▼ down 2752 · -33% births |
| 2000 | #5642 | 12 | ▼ down 2422 · -43% births |
| 1995 | #3220 | 21 | ▼ down 991 · -34% births |
| 1990 | #2229 | 32 | ▲ up 228 · +52% births |
| 1985 | #2457 | 21 | ▼ down 998 · -51% births |
| 1980 | #1459 | 43 | ▼ down 414 · -32% births |
| 1975 | #1045 | 63 | ▼ down 568 · -78% births |
| 1970 | #477 | 284 | ▼ down 54 · -16% births |
| 1965 | #423 | 337 | ▲ up 34 · +10% births |
| 1960 | #457 | 307 | ▲ up 156 · +107% births |
| 1955 | #613 | 148 | ▲ up 279 · +147% births |
| 1950 | #892 | 60 | ▲ up 640 · +200% births |
| 1945 | #1532 | 20 | — |
The story of Tod
Tod entered American naming records in 1915 and has been in use for over 109 years. With 7,700 total births recorded, Tod remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #2309 in 1915, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #13985 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Tod in 1962:
Tod by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 17 | |
| 1920s | 29 | |
| 1930s | 72 | |
| 1940s | 293 | |
| 1950s | 1,451 | |
| 1960s ★ | 3,996 | |
| 1970s | 1,141 | |
| 1980s | 362 | |
| 1990s | 219 | |
| 2000s | 84 | |
| 2010s | 36 | |
💎With 7,700 total births, Tod is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Tod?
What names sound and feel like Tod?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Tod also consider these
How is Tod written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Tod
What does the name Tod mean?
Tod means "fox" — a name rooted in American 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 Tod?
Tod 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 Tod?
Tod originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How does Tod sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Tod flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Tod ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Is Tod a common or rare name?
Tod is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.