David
Gender: M
Origin of David: Hebrew
Meaning of David: "beloved"
David's Popularity in 2011: #18
David is a classsic with a lot going for it. Serious yet simpatico, it has deep biblical roots as the Hebrew name of the Old Testament second king of Israel who, as a boy, slew the giant Philistine Goliath with his slingshot, then grew up to become a wise and highly cultivated leader who enjoyed music and was a poet, later providing inspiration to such great sculptors as Michelangelo and Donatello.
David has a special resonance for Jews, the Star of David being the symbol of Judaism, while a sixth century David became the patron saint of Wales, where it has always been a popular choice. David's a royal name well used in many cultures, and is a safe and timeless choice. The fact that it's still firmly in the Top 20 proves David's an enduring classic.
There have been countless Davids of note in history, entertainment, sport and fiction, including Copperfield, Crockett, Letterman and Beckham. Celebrities who have chosen it for their baby boys include Jennifer Hudson, Mo'Nique, and that incomparable name creator, J. K. Rowlings. The increasingly popular Dawson means 'son of David.'
Daffy, Dave, Davey, Davidde, Davie, Davies, Davin, Davis, Davon, Davy, Davyd, Davydd
David's International Variations
Daoud (Arabic) Dabid (Basque) Devi (Breton) Taavi (Finnish) Davide (French) Dáivi (Irish) Davi (Israeli) Dawid (Polish) Daved, Daven (Scandinavian) Dàibhidh (Scottish) Dai, Daffydd, Dewi (Welsh) Tevel (Yiddish)
