Troy
Troy is a boy name of Irish origin meaning “Foot soldier, descendant of the foot soldier”, pronounced TROY. It ranked #533 in the United States in 2025, given to 563 babies, and peaked at #40 in 1967. Common nicknames: Tro.
How popular is Troy in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Troy mean, and where does it come from?
Troy has multiple origin theories. As an Irish surname, it derives from "O'Troighthigh," meaning "descendant of the foot soldier." It is also strongly associated with the ancient city of Troy (Ilion) in Asia Minor, the setting of Homer's Iliad and the legendary Trojan War. The Greek name Troia may derive from a mythical founder named Tros. As a given name, Troy gained popularity in the United States from the 1950s onward, boosted by the Western film star Troy Donahue. The name evokes both classical heroism and rugged American masculinity, maintaining steady usage across decades.
How is Troy used around the world?
Troy is used in 1 languages worldwide.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Troy?
Famous People Named Troy
- Troy Aikman — American football quarterback and broadcaster
- Troy Polamalu — American football safety
- Troy Donahue — American actor
Similar Names to Troy
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Sibling Name Ideas for Troy
Looking for names that pair well with Troy? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Troy mean?
Troy is a boy name of Irish origin meaning "Foot soldier, descendant of the foot soldier." Troy has multiple origin theories. As an Irish surname, it derives from "O'Troighthigh," meaning "descendant of the foot soldier.
How do you pronounce Troy?
Troy is pronounced TROY. Common variations include Troi, Troye.
Is Troy a boy name?
Yes, Troy is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Tro.