Meaning, origin, history
David is a classic boy's name with roots dating back to ancient times. Its origins can be traced back to the Hebrew language, where it means "beloved" or "uncle." The name David has been popular throughout history and has been borne by numerous notable figures.
In the Bible, King David was the second king of Israel who reigned from 1010-970 BCE. He was known for his military victories, his role in establishing Jerusalem as the capital city, and his love for music and poetry. His reign is often considered a golden age for the Kingdom of Israel.
The name David became widespread during the Middle Ages due to its popularity among European nobility. Many kings, princes, and dukes throughout history have been named David, including the French king François II and the Scottish king James IV.
In English-speaking countries today, David remains a popular choice for boys' names. While it is often shortened to Davy in everyday use, the full form of David has consistently ranked among the top 50 baby boy names since the early 20th century.
Overall, Davey/David is an enduring name with a rich history and meaningful origin that continues to appeal to parents around the world.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Davey since 1880
Total births
3,280
Total since 1880
Peak year
1955
93 births
in 2023
29
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+88%
↗
vs previous 5 years