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Group of people

Meaning of the first name Toby

Origin

English

Meaning

God is good

Variations

Coby, Koby, Moby
The name Toby has deep roots in English history and its origins can be traced back to the ancient Angles and Saxons tribes who inhabited what is now modern-day England. Derived from the Hebrew name Tobias, Toby is a diminutive form that emerged during the Middle Ages. The name gained popularity during the 16th century and has remained a beloved choice ever since.

In history, the name Toby has had significant cultural and literary associations. Perhaps the most well-known reference is the character of Toby Belch in William Shakespeare's comedy, Twelfth Night. Toby also appears in other literary works, including Charles Dickens The Pickwick Papers and Elizabeth Gaskells Cranford, further solidifying its place in the literary canon.

In modern-day usage, the name Toby continues to be a popular choice for parents around the world. Its simple and timeless nature, combined with its positive meaning, God is good, makes it an enduring favorite. Toby's versatility is evident in its frequent appearance in various forms of media, such as film and television. Notable Tobys include Toby Jones, an acclaimed British actor known for his diverse roles, and Toby Maguire, who gained fame for portraying the iconic character of Spider-Man in the early 2000s. Overall, with its rich history and continued presence, Toby stands as a name that carries both tradition and contemporary appeal.

Based on our records...

Smith

Smith

This is the most common surname associated with Toby.
Mary

Mary

This is the most common name of those married to a Toby.
Toby

Toby

This is the most common name for a child of a Toby.
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Did you know?

1911 is when there were the most people born with the first name Toby.

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