US Popularity Rank: 3403

Origin: British

Meaning: Protector, defender

The boy's name Chad will probably mean one of two things to you—the literal personification of a surfer boy or a sweet nickname for the more distinguished Chadwick. This traditionally British pick is rooted in the Old English name Ceadda and means "protector" or "defender." For hundreds of years, Chad has been used as a short form for Charles, Chadrick, and Chadwick. That last one may give you all the feels as you remember the late actor and Marvel's Black Panther, Chadwick Boseman. Whichever meaning you love most, know that Chad never truly goes out of style! Year after year, it defends its title as one of the most loveable names around. Wakanda forever!