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David

The name David originates from the Hebrew name דָּוִד (Dawid), meaning 'beloved' or 'friend'. It holds significant cultural and religious importance as it is associated with King David, a central figure in the Hebrew Bible known for his leadership, musical abilities, and role as the predecessor to Messiah. The name has been widely used throughout Jewish, Christian, and Islamic histories and remains a popular name globally.

IPA: /ˈdeɪvɪd/ · Simplified: DAY-vid

Male
Hebrew
Jewish
Middle East
classic
strong
enduring
beloved

70/100

Popularity

Falling

10-Year Trend

8

Countries

2015

Peak Year

Meaning of David

Etymology, origin story, and cultural significance.

The name David originates from the Hebrew name דָּוִד (Dawid), meaning 'beloved' or 'friend'. It holds significant cultural and religious importance as it is associated with King David, a central figure in the Hebrew Bible known for his leadership, musical abilities, and role as the predecessor to Messiah. The name has been widely used throughout Jewish, Christian, and Islamic histories and remains a popular name globally.

Does David flow with your last name? — Run the surname compatibility check

How to pronounce David

IPA notation and a simplified pronunciation guide.

IPA: /ˈdeɪvɪd/ · Simplified: DAY-vid

Nicknames for David

Common diminutives and short forms used in everyday life.

Dave
Davy
Davie
Dee

David name popularity

Popularity score over the last 10 years and countries where this name is popular.

20152016201720182019202020212022202320240255075100

Popular in Countries

Top countries where this name is most common.

90

Israel

85

United States

80

United Kingdom

80

Canada

78

Mexico

75

Spain

70

Poland

68

France

International Forms

How this name appears across different languages and cultures.

Dawid

Davide

Davidek

Davide

Dafydd

Names like David

Names with a similar feel you might also like.

Collections featuring David

Curated name lists where this name appears

Personality

Traits and perception commonly associated with this name.

Individuals named David are often seen as steadfast and reliable, with a charismatic leadership quality. They are typically perceived as friendly and compassionate, with a strong desire to make a positive impact on those around them. David is a classic choice, embodying both strength and warmth.

Name Day

Traditional celebration date for this name.

December 29

Famous people named David

Well-known figures who share this name.

D

David Beckham

English former professional footballer, born 1975

D

David Bowie

English singer and actor, 1947–2016

Frequently asked questions about David

Quick answers on meaning, gender, popularity, and nicknames.

What does David mean?
Here is the meaning behind David: The name David originates from the Hebrew name דָּוִד (Dawid), meaning 'beloved' or 'friend'. It holds significant cultural and religious importance as it is associated with King David, a central figure in the Hebrew Bible known for his leadership, musical abilities, and role as the predecessor to Messiah. The name has been widely used throughout Jewish, Christian, and Islamic histories and remains a popular name globally.
Is David a boy or girl name?
David is traditionally a boy's name, though naming customs vary between cultures and families.
How popular is David?
David scores 70/100 on Namelia's popularity index, with a peak around 2015.
What are good nicknames for David?
Popular nicknames for David: Dave, Davy, Davie, Dee.
What names are similar to David?
Names similar to David: Daniel, Nathan, Jonathan, Samuel — close in sound, origin, or style.

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