Gender: Masculine
Origin: German/French
Meaning: “bold people.”
Fre (tee-BO)
This classic French male name is a derivative of the Germanic, Theobald, which is comprised of the elements theud meaning “people” and bald meaning “brave; bold.”
The German form of Theobald was very popular in the Middle Ages but is now considered rather old fashioned in most German-speaking countries. The name was introduced into England by the Normans in the form of Tybalt, (TIGH-bolt), and appears in Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet.
In England, the name eventually fizzled out and became rather unusual, but may make an appealing choice for a parent or parents looking for an alternative to the currently popular Tyler.
Thibault is currently very common in French-speaking countries, as of 2010, he was the 68th most popular male name in France.
Other forms of the name include:
- Theobald (Dutch/German/English)
- Tybalt (English)
- Thibaud/Thibaut (French)
- Thibault (French)
- Teobold (Hungarian/Polish)
- Baldo (Italian)
- Tebaldo (Italian)
- Teobaldo (Italian/Portuguese/Spanish)
- Tébaud (Poitvin)
A common French nickname is Titi.
The name was borne by the husband of Blanche of Navarre, Thibault V Count of Champagne and Brie as well as by his son Thibault Postume (circ. 12 century). The designated name day is July 8.
Love this one, but whenever I say it, I kinda think Tae Bo. (Even though it isn't.) Tybalt seems more wearable, but with Tyson, Tyler, etc. the pronunciation would be a headache.
In the middle spot, though? Thibault would be fabulous!
I really like Thibault, maybe because I knew a few Thibaults (they were all French speaking though). But I can see where someone might think Tae Bo.
I’ve only ever heard Tybalt pronounced as TIB-ult, like this: http://www.forvo.com/word/tybalt/#en
Also in Zeffirelli’s Romeo & Juliet: http://youtu.be/qQ0kOi6qqHY [at about the 3:05 mark]
Thanks Panya.
My little boy is called Thibaut…… it’s a fabby name! And I know there are no others around the area 🤘🏼
That’s cool. It is common enough in French speaking countries. How do you say it if you are in an English speaking country?