All about the name

Denis

Male

« Denis is a Latin name derived from the Greek Dennis or Dionysius, meaning "follower of Dionysus," the god of wine and pleasure. Its popularity spans centuries and cultures, with notable figures including Saint Denis, the first bishop of Paris known for walking six miles after his decapitation. Today, it remains widely used worldwide in various forms such as Dionisio or Denys. »

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Meaning, origin, history

Denis is a name of Latin origin, derived from the Greek name Dennis or Dionysius. The meaning of Denis is "follower of Dionysus," with Dionysus being the god of wine and pleasure in Greek mythology. The name Denis has a long history, dating back to ancient times. One of the most famous figures named Denis was Saint Denis, who was a Christian martyr and the first bishop of Paris. According to legend, after his execution in the 3rd century, Saint Denis picked up his decapitated head and walked six miles to his burial place. This image has become a symbol of the city of Paris, which is often depicted with three crowns on its coat of arms to represent Saint Denis and his two companions who were also martyred. The name Denis has been popular throughout history and across different cultures. In France, it was one of the most common names during the Middle Ages. In England, Denis was a popular name among royalty, with several kings named Dennis or Denis. Today, the name Denis is still used in many countries around the world, with variations such as Dionisio in Spanish-speaking countries and Denys in Wales. Overall, the name Denis has a rich history and cultural significance that spans centuries and continents. Its meaning as a "follower of Dionysus" adds an intriguing element to its origin story, while its association with Saint Denis lends it a sense of religious importance and tradition.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Denis since 1880

Total births
20,530
Total since 1880
Peak year
1952
618 births
in 2023
113
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+19%
vs previous 5 years