Complete Etymology, Meaning & Popularity Analysis
Summary
The name David originates from Hebrew, meaning 'beloved' or 'friend'. It has evolved through various languages and forms, retaining its significance over centuries. The name is linked to a prominent biblical figure, King David, enhancing its historical value. Today, it is perceived as a strong and artistic name, with numerous famous individuals bearing it.
Etymology & Cultural Background
Pronunciation
/ˈdeɪvɪd/
Origin
Hebrew
Etymology
The name David is derived from the Hebrew word 'דָּוִד' (Dāwīḏ), which means 'beloved' or 'friend'.
Meaning
beloved, friend
Language Evolution
Dāwīḏ (Hebrew), David (Latin), David (Old French), David (Middle English)
Biblical Background
The name David is prominent in the Bible, belonging to the second king of Israel, known for his significant role in Judeo-Christian history.
Historical Usage
The name gained popularity during the Middle Ages, particularly in Europe, influenced by the biblical figure and royal connections.
Variants & Derivatives
Davy, Dave, Davi, Dawid
Modern Popularity & Image
David remains a widely used name, often associated with strength, leadership, and artistic talent due to its historical and cultural significance.
Famous People
David Beckham, David Bowie, David Copperfield, David Attenborough
📊 Trend Analysis
Boy Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
Explore More Name Visualizations
Key Insights
Popularity Trend
Less Common name with 41 peak births in 1982
Geographic Spread
Popular across 6 US states, with strongest presence in California
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 5 different American generations with varying popularity
🔊 Alternative Spellings & Similar Sounds (5 Variations)
Explore names that share identical pronunciation with different spellings. These variations offer alternative options for parents seeking unique yet familiar-sounding choices. This curated collection includes 5 carefully selected variations that maintain the same phonetic sound while providing distinct spelling options.
Why consider alternative spellings? Different spellings can offer unique cultural significance or personal preference while maintaining the familiar sound. This collection covers various spelling patterns, helping you find variations that match your preferences.
Historical Birth Statistics
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History
Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Total Names |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) | Boy | 4278th of 6773 | 45 |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Boy | 2357th of 7552 | 226 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Boy | 1790th of 10718 | 404 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Boy | 2821st of 16616 | 339 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Boy | 19652nd of 24088 | 12 |
Regional Popularity by Generation - Male Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
53.22% 1563rd/2937 |
63.82% 2223rd/3483 |
- |
39.22% 1586th/4044 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
64.56% 2379th/3685 |
67.73% 3031st/4475 |
67.60% 3511th/5194 |
34.65% 2189th/6317 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
Regional Popularity by Generation - Female Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
State-by-State Popularity
This map shows relative popularity across states, calculated by dividing the number of births with this name in each state by the total births in that state. This methodology provides a standardized measure of popularity regardless of state population size.
Comprehensive Regional & Generational Popularity Trends in the United States
This name shows strongest popularity in California across all generations. It ranks highest as a Boy name among the Millennials (Gen Y) generation in the West region. Recent 3-year trends show this Boy name is maintaining steady popularity, while the 25-year trend indicates it has been relatively stable. From 2020-2022, usage has been stalled for male in MidWest, stalled for male in Northeast, stalled for male in South, stalled for male in West. The long-term 25-year analysis reveals it has been stalled for male in MidWest, stalled for male in Northeast, stalled for male in South, stalled for male in West. Across generations, popularity patterns vary significantly: Among the Silent Generation (1928-1945), it ranked 4278th out of 6773 names. Among the Baby Boomers (1946-1964), it ranked 2357th out of 7552 names. Among the Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980), it ranked 1790th out of 10718 names. Among the Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996), it ranked 2821st out of 16616 names. Among the Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012), it ranked 19652nd out of 24088 names. Explore how this name has evolved through American history with comprehensive regional and generational analysis.