David
David first appears in US records in 1880. It peaked in 1955, when 86,306 boys were given the name; in 2025 there were 6,794.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is David popular?
Declining David is given less often than it was a decade ago, well below its 1955 peak.
| 2020s | 45,615 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 116,740 | |
| 2000s | 180,098 | |
| 1990s | 253,711 | |
| 1980s | 383,687 | |
| 1970s | 445,704 | |
| 1960s | 733,953 | |
| 1950s | 769,963 | |
| 1940s | 426,372 | |
| 1930s | 164,701 | |
| 1920s | 88,736 | |
| 1910s | 43,853 | |
| 1900s | 8,619 | |
| 1890s | 7,333 | |
| 1880s | 7,569 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does David mean?
From the Hebrew name דָּוִד (Dawid), generally derived from the root dwd meaning 'beloved' (also linked to a word for 'uncle'). Borne by the great Old Testament king, it is one of the most securely attested 'beloved' names.
Nicknames for David
- Dave
- Davey
- Dai
Variants & spellings
- Dawid
- Davide
- Dávid
Names like David
hebrew names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with David
Popular hebrew names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare David
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name David mean?
David means Beloved. From the Hebrew name דָּוִד (Dawid), generally derived from the root dwd meaning 'beloved' (also linked to a word for 'uncle'). Borne by the great Old Testament king, it is one of the most securely attested 'beloved' names.
What is the origin of the name David?
David is of hebrew origin.
How do you pronounce David?
David is pronounced “DAY-vid.”
Is David a boy or a girl name?
David is most commonly used as a boy name.
Is David a popular name right now?
David is given less often than it was a decade ago, well below its 1955 peak.
How popular is the name David?
In 2025, David ranked #35 among boys’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name David most popular?
David was most popular in 1955, when about 86,306 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What are common nicknames for David?
Common nicknames for David include Dave, Davey, Dai.
What names are similar to David?
Names similar to David include Daniel, Michael, Joseph, Nathan.
What names go well with David?
hebrew names that pair well with David include James, Michael, John, Mary, Matthew.