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Denny Unisex

Popularity: #901 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationDEN-ee / /ˈdɛni/

English; Irish

Meaning

English: Diminutive of Dennis; Irish: Descendant of Donnchadh

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Denny is derived from the Old French name Denis, which itself comes from the Latin name Dionysius, meaning 'follower of Dionysus.' The Greek origin of the name, Dionysios, is linked to the god of wine and festivity, Dionysus, who was celebrated in ancient Greek culture. The transition from Dionysius to Denis occurred as the name was adopted into various languages, with the Old French form becoming popular in medieval Europe. The name entered the English language through Norman influence after the Conquest of 1066, where it was used both as a given name and a surname.

Historically, the name Denny has been associated with several notable figures. One significant touchpoint is Saint Denis, a 3rd-century Christian martyr and the patron saint of France, whose veneration contributed to the name's popularity in the Christian context. The name was further popularized in the Middle Ages, particularly in France and England, where it was often given to boys in honor of the saint. The name appears in various historical texts and documents throughout the centuries, reflecting its enduring presence in European culture.

Culturally, Denny has been associated with themes of celebration and festivity due to its etymological roots in Dionysus. This connection to merriment and revelry has allowed the name to resonate across different cultures and eras. In addition, diminutive forms such as Den or Denny have emerged, reflecting a more affectionate or familiar usage. The name's historical significance and its ties to religious and cultural traditions have contributed to its lasting appeal.

Trend Summary

Denny has seen a decline in popularity in the United States over recent decades.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Den
  • Dennis

International Variants

  • Denny (English)
  • Denis (French)
  • Dinis (Portuguese)

Famous people named Denny

Denny Hamlin is a race car driver best known for his victories in the NASCAR Cup Series and his multiple Daytona 500 appearances.

Denny McLain is a former professional baseball player best known for being a two-time Cy Young Award winner and the last pitcher to win 30 games in a season.

Denny Laine is a musician best known for being a founding member of the Moody Blues and for his work with Wings.

Fictional characters named Denny

Denny Crane is a fictional character from the TV series Boston Legal. He is a flamboyant and eccentric attorney known for his unorthodox methods and strong personality.

Denny is a fictional character from the video game series Danganronpa. They are a student at Hope's Peak Academy and play a significant role in the narrative surrounding the killing game.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Denny was first seen in the United States in 1889. Denny has ranked as high as #637 nationally, which occurred in 1947, and has been most popular in California, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Kentucky. In the past 5 years the name Denny has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Denny (2022)

StateBirthsShare
TX 7
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18895
18986
18995
19007
19077
19085
19097
19105
19119
191213
191314
191416
191521
191615
191726
191820
191918
192032
192140
192238
192326
192434
192539
192647
192762
192870
192970
193076
193160
193286
1933105
1934132
1935127
1936139
1937141
1938162
1939222
1940187
1941224
1942303
1943300
1944295
1945273
1946390
1947440
1948327
1949272
1950296
1951270
1952251
1953246
1954221
1955238
1956255
1957294
1958305
1959317
1960309
1961259
1962259
1963275
1964227
1965237
1966215
1967195
1968204
1969267
1970244
1971217
1972224
1973197
1974217
1975200
1976165
1977189
1978149
1979139
1980139
1981134
1982157
1983122
1984101
1985117
1986109
1987114
1988112
1989118
199088
1991114
199298
199383
199490
199588
199697
199798
199863
199976
200066
200168
200281
200373
200473
200568
200678
200785
200865
200950
201063
201168
201242
201344
201444
201548
201631
201733
201834
201932
202017
202126
202232
202330
202423