Dakoda

Dakoda is a feminine variant of Dakota, a name with Native American origins from the Sioux tribe meaning 'friend' or 'ally.' This spelling variation with a 'k' instead of a 'c' gives the traditional name a modern twist while maintaining its cultural roots. Dakoda emerged as a given name for girls particularly in the 1990s and 2000s, appealing to parents seeking names with both cultural significance and contemporary appeal. The name conveys strength and natural beauty, evoking images of the Great Plains and Dakota territories. While less common than the standard Dakota spelling, Dakoda offers a distinctive option that preserves the melodic quality and meaningful heritage of the original.

Pronounced duh-KO-duh.

As of October 2026, Dakoda ranked #7578 in US births in 2025 SSA, peaked at #2892 in 2006.