David Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationDAY-vid / /ˈdeɪ.vɪd/Hebrew; English
Meaning
Hebrew: beloved; English: friend
Historical & Cultural Background
The name David has its roots in the Hebrew language, originating from the word "dāwīḏ," which means "beloved." This name appears in the Hebrew Bible, where David is a significant figure, renowned as the second king of Israel and a central character in various biblical narratives. The name was transliterated into Greek as "Dávid" and later into Latin as "Davidus," which facilitated its entry into Old French as "David," before being adopted into Middle English during the Norman Conquest in the 11th century.
Historically, David is best known for his role in the biblical accounts of the Old Testament, particularly in the books of Samuel, where he is depicted as a shepherd, musician, and warrior who defeated Goliath. His reign is traditionally dated to around the 10th century BCE, and he is credited with uniting the tribes of Israel and establishing Jerusalem as the capital. The name gained further prominence through its association with various saints, including Saint David, the patron saint of Wales, who lived in the 6th century and is celebrated for his piety and founding monastic communities.
Culturally, the name David has resonated through centuries, symbolizing leadership, bravery, and divine favor. It has been a popular name in various cultures and languages, often associated with notable historical figures, including kings and scholars. The name's enduring legacy is reflected in its frequent appearance in literature, art, and religious texts, including the King James Bible, which helped to popularize biblical names in English-speaking regions. Additionally, diminutive forms such as "Dave" have emerged, though the name David itself remains a significant and respected choice across many cultures.
Trend Summary
David has consistently ranked among the top names for boys in the United States, though its popularity has seen a gradual decline in recent years.
Similar Names
Variants
- Davy
- Dave
International Variants
- Dávid (Hungarian)
- Davi (Portuguese)
- Davide (Italian)
- Dawid (Polish)
Famous people named David
David Bowie is a musician and actor best known for Space Oddity, Heroes, and The Thin White Duke.
David Beckham is a retired footballer best known for his time with Manchester United, Real Madrid, and the England national team.
David Attenborough is a broadcaster and natural historian best known for The Blue Planet, Planet Earth, and Life on Earth.
David Letterman is a television host and comedian best known for The Late Show with David Letterman and Late Night with David Letterman.
David Copperfield is a magician and illusionist best known for his televised magic specials and his live performances.
David Schwimmer is an actor best known for his role as Ross Geller on Friends and for American Crime Story.
David Fincher is a film director and producer best known for Fight Club, The Social Network, and Seven.
David Mamet is a playwright and screenwriter best known for Glengarry Glen Ross, American Buffalo, and Oleanna.
David Gilmour is a musician best known as the guitarist and co-lead vocalist of Pink Floyd.
David Foster is a music producer and songwriter best known for producing albums for Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, and Andrea Bocelli.
David S. Pumpkins is a fictional character from Saturday Night Live best known for his Halloween-themed sketches.
David Chappelle is a comedian and actor best known for Chappelle's Show and his stand-up specials.
David Blaine is a magician and endurance artist best known for his street magic and endurance feats.
David Mamet is a playwright and filmmaker best known for his works in theater and film, including Glengarry Glen Ross and The Spanish Prisoner.
David O. Russell is a film director and writer best known for Silver Linings Playbook, American Hustle, and The Fighter.
David Krumholtz is an actor best known for his roles in Numb3rs, The Santa Clause, and 10 Things I Hate About You.
Fictional characters named David
David is a fictional character from the film A.I. Artificial Intelligence. He is a highly advanced robotic boy who seeks to become 'real' in order to gain the love of his human mother.
David is a fictional character from the TV series Doctor Who. He is a companion to the Doctor, known for his intelligence and bravery in facing various challenges throughout time and space.
David is a fictional character from the novel The Secret Garden. He is a kind-hearted boy who helps Mary Lennox discover the healing power of nature and friendship.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name David was first seen in the United States in 1880. David has ranked as high as #2 nationally, which occurred in 1955, and has been most popular in California, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name David has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for David (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| TX | 923 | |
| CA | 856 | |
| NY | 658 | |
| FL | 512 | |
| NC | 274 | |
| PA | 254 | |
| GA | 248 | |
| IL | 242 | |
| OH | 208 | |
| WA | 181 | |
| TN | 170 | |
| VA | 165 | |
| AZ | 155 | |
| MD | 155 | |
| MI | 153 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880 | 869 |
| 1881 | 750 |
| 1882 | 838 |
| 1883 | 734 |
| 1884 | 761 |
| 1885 | 712 |
| 1886 | 674 |
| 1887 | 673 |
| 1888 | 801 |
| 1889 | 757 |
| 1890 | 731 |
| 1891 | 673 |
| 1892 | 813 |
| 1893 | 724 |
| 1894 | 729 |
| 1895 | 707 |
| 1896 | 765 |
| 1897 | 730 |
| 1898 | 815 |
| 1899 | 646 |
| 1900 | 883 |
| 1901 | 672 |
| 1902 | 761 |
| 1903 | 716 |
| 1904 | 817 |
| 1905 | 838 |
| 1906 | 878 |
| 1907 | 945 |
| 1908 | 1,015 |
| 1909 | 1,094 |
| 1910 | 1,258 |
| 1911 | 1,556 |
| 1912 | 2,858 |
| 1913 | 3,282 |
| 1914 | 4,251 |
| 1915 | 5,394 |
| 1916 | 5,812 |
| 1917 | 6,099 |
| 1918 | 6,627 |
| 1919 | 6,716 |
| 1920 | 7,444 |
| 1921 | 7,765 |
| 1922 | 7,865 |
| 1923 | 8,230 |
| 1924 | 8,758 |
| 1925 | 8,915 |
| 1926 | 9,041 |
| 1927 | 9,426 |
| 1928 | 9,992 |
| 1929 | 11,301 |
| 1930 | 12,275 |
| 1931 | 11,783 |
| 1932 | 12,139 |
| 1933 | 12,027 |
| 1934 | 14,003 |
| 1935 | 15,662 |
| 1936 | 17,477 |
| 1937 | 20,980 |
| 1938 | 22,994 |
| 1939 | 25,359 |
| 1940 | 27,691 |
| 1941 | 30,553 |
| 1942 | 35,905 |
| 1943 | 37,243 |
| 1944 | 37,379 |
| 1945 | 37,107 |
| 1946 | 46,444 |
| 1947 | 57,809 |
| 1948 | 56,624 |
| 1949 | 59,610 |
| 1950 | 60,729 |
| 1951 | 64,789 |
| 1952 | 71,753 |
| 1953 | 76,119 |
| 1954 | 79,560 |
| 1955 | 86,301 |
| 1956 | 81,650 |
| 1957 | 82,404 |
| 1958 | 82,679 |
| 1959 | 83,967 |
| 1960 | 85,908 |
| 1961 | 84,805 |
| 1962 | 81,335 |
| 1963 | 78,450 |
| 1964 | 75,036 |
| 1965 | 67,828 |
| 1966 | 66,417 |
| 1967 | 66,802 |
| 1968 | 63,683 |
| 1969 | 63,675 |
| 1970 | 61,729 |
| 1971 | 53,118 |
| 1972 | 46,326 |
| 1973 | 41,085 |
| 1974 | 41,793 |
| 1975 | 39,155 |
| 1976 | 39,273 |
| 1977 | 40,516 |
| 1978 | 40,684 |
| 1979 | 42,062 |
| 1980 | 41,890 |
| 1981 | 40,633 |
| 1982 | 40,456 |
| 1983 | 39,206 |
| 1984 | 38,492 |
| 1985 | 38,527 |
| 1986 | 37,149 |
| 1987 | 36,796 |
| 1988 | 35,330 |
| 1989 | 35,223 |
| 1990 | 33,747 |
| 1991 | 30,417 |
| 1992 | 28,425 |
| 1993 | 27,039 |
| 1994 | 24,874 |
| 1995 | 23,046 |
| 1996 | 23,024 |
| 1997 | 21,896 |
| 1998 | 20,892 |
| 1999 | 20,352 |
| 2000 | 19,787 |
| 2001 | 19,362 |
| 2002 | 18,704 |
| 2003 | 18,640 |
| 2004 | 18,407 |
| 2005 | 18,141 |
| 2006 | 17,667 |
| 2007 | 17,563 |
| 2008 | 16,346 |
| 2009 | 15,455 |
| 2010 | 14,223 |
| 2011 | 13,254 |
| 2012 | 12,558 |
| 2013 | 12,396 |
| 2014 | 12,253 |
| 2015 | 11,836 |
| 2016 | 11,148 |
| 2017 | 10,241 |
| 2018 | 9,811 |
| 2019 | 8,984 |
| 2020 | 8,259 |
| 2021 | 7,925 |
| 2022 | 7,820 |
| 2023 | 7,413 |
| 2024 | 7,317 |