Dorothy
Dorothy first appears in US records in 1880. It peaked in 1924, when 39,996 girls were given the name; in 2025 there were 743.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Dorothy popular?
Rising Dorothy has climbed over the past decade, given to more girls now than ten years ago.
| 2020s | 3,984 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 3,958 | |
| 2000s | 2,717 | |
| 1990s | 4,211 | |
| 1980s | 7,143 | |
| 1970s | 11,664 | |
| 1960s | 33,011 | |
| 1950s | 74,475 | |
| 1940s | 132,257 | |
| 1930s | 210,415 | |
| 1920s | 368,875 | |
| 1910s | 207,475 | |
| 1900s | 39,112 | |
| 1890s | 10,846 | |
| 1880s | 2,088 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Dorothy mean?
English form of Dorothea, from Greek doron 'gift' + theos 'God', meaning 'gift of God'. Same elements as Theodore reversed.
Nicknames for Dorothy
- Dot
- Dottie
- Dolly
- Dora
Variants & spellings
- Dorothea
- Dorothée
Names like Dorothy
english names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Dorothy
Popular english names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Dorothy
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Dorothy mean?
Dorothy means gift of God. English form of Dorothea, from Greek doron 'gift' + theos 'God', meaning 'gift of God'. Same elements as Theodore reversed.
What is the origin of the name Dorothy?
Dorothy is of english origin.
How do you pronounce Dorothy?
Dorothy is pronounced “DOR-ə-thee.”
Is Dorothy a boy or a girl name?
Dorothy is most commonly used as a girl name.
Is Dorothy a popular name right now?
Dorothy has climbed over the past decade, given to more girls now than ten years ago.
How popular is the name Dorothy?
In 2025, Dorothy ranked #421 among girls’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Dorothy most popular?
Dorothy was most popular in 1924, when about 39,996 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What are common nicknames for Dorothy?
Common nicknames for Dorothy include Dot, Dottie, Dolly, Dora.
What names are similar to Dorothy?
Names similar to Dorothy include Nancy, Joan, Addison, Harper, Jane.
What names go well with Dorothy?
english names that pair well with Dorothy include Nancy, Edward, Joan, Mason, Robin.