All about the name
Dorethy
Female
« Dorothy is an English feminine given name derived from 'dore' meaning gift and 'thy', translating to "gift from God". It was popularized in the Middle Ages through Saint Dorothea's legend and further popularized by L. Frank Baum's iconic character Dorothy Gale in "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz". »
#26768
since 1900
Meaning, origin, history
Dorothy is a feminine given name of English origin. It is composed of two elements: "dore," which means "gift," and "thy," a possessive form of "thou." Therefore, the meaning of Dorothy is "gift from God."
The name Dorothy entered popular use in the Middle Ages, during the period of the Crusades. It was inspired by the legend of Saint Dorothea, a young woman who lived in the 4th century and was martyred for her faith. According to tradition, she dropped roses at her persecutor's feet as she was led away to be executed, which later became associated with the name Dorothy.
The name Dorothy gained further popularity through literature. In L. Frank Baum's "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz," published in 1900, the protagonist is a young girl named Dorothy Gale from Kansas. This character has since become iconic and has likely contributed to the name's enduring appeal.
Today, Dorothy remains a classic choice for parents seeking a traditional yet timeless name for their daughters. While it may be considered somewhat old-fashioned by some, its historical significance and literary associations continue to make it an attractive option for many families.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Dorethy since 1880
Total births
98
Total since 1880
Peak year
1926
12 births
in 1939
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years