Dane is a name of Scandinavian origin, derived from the Old Norse word "Dani" which means "Danish". It is often used as a male given name, but it can also be used as a surname.
The name Dane has been popular throughout history and across various cultures. In ancient times, it was associated with the Danish people, who were known for their bravery and skill in battle. The name was also carried by several historical figures, such as Dane Gails, a Viking warrior, and Saint Dane, an Irish bishop.
In literature, the name Dane has been used prominently. One of the most famous examples is in "Findling," a novel by Danish author Henrik Pontoppidan, where the main character is named Johannes Dane. The name also appears in several works by American playwright Eugene O'Neill, including "The Hairy Ape" and "Strange Interlude."
Today, the name Dane continues to be popular both as a given name and a surname. It is often chosen for its strong, confident sound and its Scandinavian roots. Despite its Danish origins, the name has been adopted by many cultures around the world, making it a truly global name.
In summary, Dane is a name of Scandinavian origin that means "Danish." It has a rich history and has been used prominently in literature throughout the centuries. Today, it continues to be a popular choice for parents seeking a strong, confident name for their child.
The name Dane has seen varied popularity over the years, with peaks in the late 1970s to mid-1980s and again in the early 1990s. The highest number of births in a single year was 19 births in 1987. However, since then, the name's popularity has decreased significantly, with fewer than 10 births per year from 2000 onwards, and as low as 5 births per year in recent years (2015-2019).