David

The Meaning & Origin of the Name David

Gender Boy
Origin Hebrew
Letters 5
Syllables 2
Pronunciation DEY-vid

David, which has 5 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of Hebrew origin.

Meaning of David

Beloved

David is a Hebrew name meaning “beloved” or “dearly loved”. It is a popular name, due to its biblical reference as the name of the second king of the United Kingdom of Israel.

Save
Rate:
(3.2/5 from 111 votes)
Meaning Beloved
Origin Hebrew
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #31 in 2024 Steady
Rarity (US) Popular (Top 50)
Era 60s name

Background & History of The Name David

The name 'David' has Hebrew origins and is derived from the Hebrew name דָּוִד (Dāwīḏ), meaning "beloved" or "darling". David is a prominent biblical name, as it belongs to the great King David of Israel. Revered as one of the most famous figures in the Hebrew Bible, David is often described as a shepherd, warrior, musician, and poet. His story is intricately woven into various biblical narratives, including his renowned victory over the giant Goliath.

The name David has a strong historical significance and has been widely used in numerous cultures across the world. In addition to its biblical roots, David has gained popularity as a result of its association with royalty. Many kings, conquerors, and rulers have chosen this name, further solidifying its regal connotation.

David has remained a timeless and enduring name throughout generations. It has also spawned various derivatives and forms, including Dave, Davy, and Davey. Furthermore, the name has been adapted and transliterated into different languages, preserving its popularity and recognition globally.

In contemporary society, David continues to be a well-liked name, maintaining its classic charm. It embodies qualities of strength, leadership, and creativity, which contribute to its never-ending appeal. Various notable personalities have borne the name, such as David Bowie, the legendary English musician, and David Beckham, the renowned English footballer. Their accomplishments and influence have further elevated the name's prominence in popular culture.

In conclusion, the name David holds deep historical and biblical significance. Its meaning as "beloved" or "darling" encapsulates its enduring appeal. With its rich cultural and royal associations, the name has remained popular and continues to be embraced by parents seeking a timeless and meaningful name for their child.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of David over the years.

Check Initials

See what initials David would create with your last name.

Nicknames

Common nicknames and short forms for David.

Save This Name

Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.

Create Free Account

Partner Matching

Rate names with your partner and find the ones you both love.

Learn More

Sibling Matcher

Find names that pair well with your existing children's names.

Find Sibling Names