David is a popular given name of Hebrew origin, meaning "beloved" or "friend." It is derived from the ancient Hebrew name Dawid, which is believed to have been used since biblical times. In the Old Testament of the Bible, David was a shepherd boy who later became the second king of Israel, known for his bravery and wisdom.
The name David has been widely used throughout history and across various cultures. It gained popularity in Europe during the Middle Ages due to the spread of Christianity and the reverence for King David as a prominent figure in the Bible. In English-speaking countries, the name David became particularly popular in the 19th century and has remained a classic choice ever since.
Some notable figures throughout history have borne the name David, including several kings and rulers, such as King David II of Scotland (reigned 1329-1371) and Tsar David I of Georgia (reigned 1089-1125). Additionally, many artists, writers, and scientists have been named David, contributing to the name's enduring popularity and recognition. These include French impressionist painter Edgar Degas, American novelist and short-story writer Isaac Asimov, and British theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking.
In literature and popular culture, the name David has appeared in numerous works, further cementing its place in history and collective consciousness. Examples include Charles Dickens' "David Copperfield," Alexandre Dumas' "The Count of Monte Cristo," and more recently, J.K. Rowling's "Harry Potter" series, where the character of Professor David Ravenclaw plays a significant role.
In summary, the name David has its roots in ancient Hebrew culture and religion, with its meaning and usage evolving over time across various languages and cultures. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its biblical significance, historical figures, and appearances in literature and popular culture.
The name David has been a popular choice for parents in the United States over the past century and a half. From 1883 to present day (2023), there have been a total of 12,946 births registered with the name David.
Looking at the annual statistics, it's clear that the popularity of the name David has fluctuated over time. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the number of babies named David ranged from as low as five or six births per year to a peak of 21 births in 1914.
However, starting around the mid-20th century, there was a significant increase in the popularity of the name David. In 1958, the number of boys named David jumped to 205, and this trend continued throughout the following decades. The name reached its peak popularity in the United States during the early 1960s, with 290 births in 1962.
Since then, the popularity of the name David has steadily declined. By the late 1970s and early 1980s, the number of babies named David began to drop significantly, reaching a low point of just eight births in 2022.
Despite this decline in recent years, the name David remains a timeless classic. It has consistently ranked among the top 1,000 most popular baby names in the United States since record-keeping began in 1880. Parents continue to choose this strong and distinguished name for their sons, ensuring that it will remain a staple in American naming culture for generations to come.
In conclusion, while the popularity of the name David has ebbed and flowed over time, its enduring appeal is undeniable. With nearly 13,000 boys bearing the name since records began, David remains a beloved choice among parents in the United States.