Dave is a popular and straightforward male given name with roots tracing back to Wales. Originating from the Welsh personal name "David," which means "beloved" or "uncle," Dave shares its etymological history with this more widely known name. The name David, in turn, derives from the Hebrew name "Dawid," a title held by King David of the Old Testament.
The name Dave has been used as an independent given name since the Middle Ages and has gained widespread popularity over time, particularly in English-speaking countries. It is often considered a short form or diminutive of David but can also stand alone as a distinct name.
Throughout history, many notable figures have carried the name Dave, contributing to its prominence and recognition. Some examples include American musician Dave Matthews, known for his band Dave Matthews Band; Australian cricket legend Dave Warner; and British politician and former Prime Minister Dave (David) Cameron.
In popular culture, Dave also appears as a common character name in movies, television shows, literature, and other forms of media, further cementing its familiarity and appeal. Although the name Dave may not have any specific associated celebrations or personality traits tied to it, its simple, approachable nature has made it a beloved choice among parents and individuals alike for generations.
The name Dave has been popular among parents in the United States for over a century, with the first significant number of births recorded in 1880. Between 1880 and 1975, the popularity of the name fluctuated but remained relatively stable, with an average of around 200 births per year.
However, starting from 1976, there was a significant decline in the number of newborns named Dave. This trend continued until the early 2000s, with fewer than 100 babies being named Dave each year between 1993 and 2005. The lowest point was reached in 2006, with only 90 births.
Despite this decline, the name Dave has not completely disappeared from US birth records. Since 2007, there have been around 70 to 80 babies named Dave each year, indicating that while it may no longer be a popular choice, it still holds some appeal for parents.
Overall, since 1880, there have been a total of 64,254 newborns named Dave in the United States. This statistic underscores the enduring popularity of this name among American parents over time, even if its peak has passed.