Meaning, origin, history
David is a name of Hebrew origin that means "beloved" or "uncle." It is derived from the Hebrew word "dod," which means "beloved." The name David has a rich history and is associated with several notable figures in both biblical and secular contexts.
In the Bible, David was the second king of ancient Israel. He was a shepherd boy who became a mighty warrior, musician, and poet. David is best known for slaying the giant Goliath with a stone and a slingshot. After becoming king, he established Jerusalem as his capital and united the twelve tribes of Israel under his rule. His reign marked a golden age in the history of ancient Israel.
The name David has been popular among Jews throughout history and has since become widely used by Christians as well. Many prominent figures have borne this name, including King David's son Solomon, who was known for his wisdom; Saint David, the patron saint of Wales; and several kings of Scotland and England.
In more recent times, Davie has emerged as a popular variant spelling of the name David. While it is not as common as the traditional spelling, Davie remains a beloved name choice among parents looking for something slightly different while still honoring the classic name's meaning and history.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Davie since 1880
Total births
3,239
Total since 1880
Peak year
1955
62 births
in 2023
9
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+39%
↗
vs previous 5 years