Doris
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Doris
Doris is a Greek girl name, which has 5 letters.
Doris is a female given name of Greek origin. It is derived from the Greek word dōron, meaning "gift". It is often associated with the Greek goddess of the sea, Doris. The name has a long history of usage in the English-speaking world and is often associated with the phrase "Doris Day," which is a reference to the popular 1950s movie star.
Rating
Be the first one to vote!
Log in to save this name to your favorites.
Detailed Information About The Name Doris
The name "Doris" originates from ancient Greek mythology and is derived from the word "Doron," which means "gift" in Greek. In Greek mythology, Doris was a sea nymph, one of the 50 daughters of Nereus, the Old Man of the Sea, and Doris, the daughter of Oceanus and Tethys. Doris was associated with the sea and often depicted as a beautiful and benevolent marine divinity.
The popularity of the name Doris grew in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. At that time, it was considered a fashionable choice for baby girls, particularly in Anglophone countries. The name experienced a peak in popularity in the United States in the 1920s and 1930s. Notable figures with the name Doris include Doris Day, a legendary American actress and singer, who became one of the biggest box-office stars in the 1950s and 1960s.
However, the name Doris has declined in popularity over recent decades and is less frequently chosen for newborns today. In many cultures, names like Doris have given way to more modern and trendy choices. Nevertheless, the name still carries a sense of classic elegance and nostalgia.
In terms of meaning, the name Doris represents qualities such as grace, beauty, and femininity, reflecting its association with the graceful sea nymph in Greek mythology. People named Doris often exhibit traits such as kindness, compassion, and an affinity for artistic pursuits. The name Doris has also appeared in literature, with notable characters named Doris appearing in works such as Oscar Wilde's play "The Importance of Being Earnest."
Overall, the name Doris has a rich mythological background and historical significance. Although it may not be as prevalent today, it remains a name that exudes timeless charm and evokes a sense of the sea and its mythical origins.
Similar Greek Baby Names
Search Baby Names & Meanings
Search our growing database of baby names to find just the right name for your baby or to find out what your own name means!
Celebrity Baby Names
Celebrity baby names are usually not conventional, but some of them become popular. Here is our growing list of celebrity baby names.
Celebrity Baby NamesNaming Your Baby
Picking a name is one of the most important things you will do for your child, so why not take some time to look through our collection of baby naming resources.
Naming Your BabyUnusual Baby Names
Unique or unusual baby names are tempting when it is time to name your child; however, you should also be aware of the pitfalls that a unique name might have.
Unusual Baby NamesBiblical Baby Names
Biblical names are some of the most widely used names, and for good reason. The tradition and history behind these names makes them a great choice!
Biblical Baby NamesTypes of Baby Names
The baby name collection on this site is constantly evolving, and a good way to browse through our database is selecting the type of name you are interested in.
Types of Baby Names