Theo

Theo is a short form of longer Germanic names beginning with the element theud, meaning people or nation, most commonly Theodore (from Greek Theodoros, meaning gift of God) or Theobald. It has been used independently as a given name in English, German, Dutch, and Scandinavian languages, gaining particular popularity in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The Dutch Post-Impressionist painter Theo van Gogh, brother of Vincent, is among its most recognized historical bearers. Related forms include Theodore, Theodor, Théodore, and Theobald.