Da & De Names

Da & De Names
The Da- and De- prefixes are French in origin — they mean "son of" — but have come to represent a now-faded trend in African American naming. Most Da and De names peaked in the 1990s, making them characteristically Millennial names. They were particularly popular among baby boys, and Deandre was the highest ranking of them all.

Along with Deandre, other Da and De names currently in the US Top 1000 include Demetrius, Damari, Dakari, and D'Angelo. At the height of their fashion, in the mid- '90s, Deshawn, Davonte, Demario, and Dequan were common as well.

Our list encompasses names that use Da and De (and D) as a singular syllable. Many of these names are modern interpretations of classic names, and others are combinations of stylish syllables.

Da and De names are no longer as hot as they used to be (they're more likely to be worn by moms and dads!) but you may still find inspiration on this list. Search our collection of Da and De names for babies below.
  1. Demetrius
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "follower of Demeter"
    • Description:

      Classical and Shakespearean name that may appeal if you like your names long, flowing and multicultural.
  2. Deangelo
    • Origin:

      Italian
    • Meaning:

      "from the angel"
    • Description:

      This name obviously has the prefix De- that denotes "son of"—in this form it can mean either "son of Angelo" or "from the angel."
  3. Demitra
    • Description:

      Demitra is a feminine name of Greek origin, representing a variant form of Demeter or Demetra. It derives from the name of the Greek goddess Demeter, who presided over the harvest, fertility, and sacred law. The name literally means 'earth mother' or 'mother goddess,' combining 'ge' (earth) and 'meter' (mother). Demitra carries the powerful associations of nurturing, abundance, and the cycle of seasons inherent in the goddess's mythology. While less common than the variant Demetra or the masculine Dimitri, Demitra offers a distinctive option that maintains clear Greek cultural connections. The name has a rhythmic, melodious quality with its three syllables and conveys both strength and feminine grace.

  4. Deandre
    • Origin:

      Modern invented name
    • Meaning:

      "son of Andre"
    • Description:

      A popular choice amongst the African American naming community in the 90s, Deandre has been falling out of style in favor of more contemporary choices.
  5. Dakari
    • Origin:

      African
    • Meaning:

      "rejoice"
    • Description:

      This name from the Shona language is a new entrant to the Top 1000 in the US.
  6. Demetra
    • Description:

      Demetra is a feminine name of Greek origin, serving as a variant of Demeter, the Greek goddess of agriculture, fertility, and the harvest. The name carries significant mythological weight, as Demeter was one of the most revered deities in ancient Greek culture. Demetra has maintained consistent though modest usage, particularly in Greek communities and among families with Greek heritage. The name conveys strength, nurturing qualities, and a connection to the earth. With its classical roots and melodic sound, Demetra appeals to parents seeking a name with historical depth and feminine grace that isn't overly common. The name often evokes images of abundance, nurturing, and natural beauty.
  7. Dakara
    • Description:

      Dakara is a feminine name with an exotic, multicultural feel. Though relatively uncommon, it may have origins in various cultural backgrounds. Some sources suggest possible Japanese connections, where 'da kara' means 'therefore' or 'because of that,' though as a given name it likely carries different significance. Others point to African origins, particularly among Yoruba-speaking communities. The name has a rhythmic quality with its alternating consonants and vowels, creating a melodic sound when spoken. Dakara began appearing in the United States during the late 20th century, aligning with trends toward distinctive, globally-inspired names. The name remains rare in most Western countries, appealing to parents seeking a unique name with an international flair. Its soft sounds combined with strong consonants give it a balanced feminine energy.

  8. Denisha
    • Origin:

      American variation of Denise, French from Greek
    • Meaning:

      "god of Nysa"
    • Description:

      Typical of formula that takes a traditional name syllable and adds -isha ending.
  9. Dejuan
    • Description:

      Dejuan appears to be a modern variation of the name Juan, which is the Spanish form of John, derived from Hebrew Yochanan meaning 'God is gracious.' The 'De' prefix may have emerged through several influences: it could be inspired by French 'de' (meaning 'of'), reflect naming patterns seen in other names beginning with 'De-', or represent a creative variation seeking distinctive sounds. The name gained modest usage in the United States beginning in the 1970s and saw increased popularity through the 1990s, though it has never ranked among the most common names nationally. Dejuan represents naming patterns that blend traditional elements with modern innovations. Pronunciation typically follows 'deh-WAHN' or 'deh-JUAN' patterns. Usage data shows the name has maintained consistent though limited popularity across diverse communities in the United States since its emergence.
  10. Denita
    • Description:

      Denita is a feminine name with several possible origins. It may be a diminutive form of Dena or Diana, the latter derived from the Roman goddess of the moon and hunting. Alternatively, it could be related to Dennis, ultimately from the Greek name Dionysios, referring to the god Dionysus. In some cases, Denita might be a variation of Juanita or a creative modern invention. The name has a soft, melodic quality with its flowing vowel sounds. Denita gained modest popularity in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s but remains relatively uncommon today. Its appeal lies in its gentle sound and feminine quality while being distinctive enough to stand out without seeming bizarre or difficult to pronounce.
  11. Delisa
    • Description:

      Delisa is a feminine name with Romance language origins, possibly derived from 'delicia' meaning 'delight' or 'pleasure' in Latin. It can be considered a variation of names like Delilah or a diminutive form of names containing 'del' elements. Delisa emerged in popularity during the mid-20th century in the United States, particularly in the 1960s and 1970s, though it has always remained relatively uncommon. The name carries a gentle, melodic quality with its soft consonants and flowing vowels. People named Delisa are often perceived as having graceful, pleasant personalities. The name maintains modest usage in contemporary times, appreciated for its distinctiveness while still being easy to pronounce and spell.
  12. Demari
    • Description:

      Demari is a modern unisex name with multiple possible origins, though it's more commonly used for boys. It may be a variation of Damari, which has Hebrew roots meaning 'palm tree,' symbolizing strength and victory. Alternatively, it could be derived from African origins or represent a creative combination of elements from other names like Demarco or Demario. The name has a musical quality with its balanced syllables and smooth pronunciation. Demari began gaining modest recognition in the United States during the 1990s and has gradually increased in usage since then, though it remains relatively uncommon. The name carries a contemporary feel while avoiding trendy patterns, giving it longevity potential. Parents might be drawn to Demari for its distinctive sound, cross-cultural appeal, and the balance it strikes between uniqueness and accessibility. The name also works well across diverse cultural backgrounds.

  13. Damarius
    • Description:

      Damarius appears to be a modern masculine given name that emerged primarily in the late 20th century. The name may be a variation of Demetrius, which has ancient Greek origins meaning 'follower of Demeter' (the goddess of agriculture). Alternatively, it could be a creative combination of the common prefix 'Da-' with 'Marius,' an ancient Roman family name. The spelling variant with the '-ius' ending gives the name a classical feel, reflecting a trend in contemporary naming that draws on historical elements while creating something distinctive. Usage records show Damarius appearing with increased frequency beginning in the 1980s and 1990s. While never among the most common names, it represents the modern trend toward melodic masculine names with multiple syllables and classical-sounding endings.
  14. Dequan
    • Description:

      Dequan appears to be a modern constructed name that emerged in the United States in the late 20th century, particularly gaining usage in the 1980s and 1990s. The prefix 'De-' is a common element in many names, possibly derived from French or Latin origins meaning 'of' or 'from.' The 'quan' element might relate to names like Quentin (from Latin 'quintus' meaning 'fifth') or could be inspired by Asian naming elements (like Chinese 'quan' meaning 'power' or 'strength'). However, its specific etymology is unclear. Dequan represents contemporary naming patterns that favor distinctive sounds and unique combinations. Usage records show the name has been consistently given in various regions of the United States. The name exemplifies creative modern naming practices that often combine familiar phonetic elements to create new and distinctive identities.
  15. Delinda
    • Description:

      Delinda is a feminine name with Latin origins, possibly derived from 'linda' meaning 'beautiful' with the prefix 'de' adding emphasis. The name has been in sporadic use in the United States since the mid-20th century, though it has never been particularly common. Delinda gained some modest recognition through the character Delinda Deline in the TV series 'Las Vegas' which aired in the early 2000s. The name carries a melodious quality and vintage charm that appeals to parents seeking something uncommon yet recognizable. Delinda may also be related to classical mythological names or variations of Melinda or Belinda.

  16. Davonte
    • Description:

      Davonte is a modern masculine name that appears to be a variation of names like Davon, Donte, or Devon, with the Italian suffix '-te' added. The name likely derives from combinations of elements from names like David (Hebrew for 'beloved') and possibly Lamont or Donte. Davonte gained moderate popularity in the United States primarily during the 1990s and early 2000s. Usage data shows it reached its peak around 2000-2005 before gradually declining in frequency. The name has been used across diverse communities in the United States, though usage statistics show regional variations in popularity. Davonte represents the modern trend of creating distinctive names through creative spelling variations and combinations of established name elements.
  17. Delora
    • Origin:

      English ariation of Dolores, Spanish
    • Meaning:

      "lady of sorrows"
    • Description:

      A form of Dolores (or Delores) that was occasionally used in the early 20th century. It could work as an alternative to Lenora, Laura, Delilah, or Della.
  18. Dewayne
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "dark, black"
    • Description:

      Dewayne is a masculine name that gained popularity primarily in the United States during the mid-20th century. It's a variant spelling of Duane, which derives from the Irish surname Ó Dubháin, meaning "descendant of Dubhán" (where Dubhán comes from "dubh" meaning "dark" or "black").

  19. Damari
    • Origin:

      Variation of Amari
    • Description:

      Damari is thought to be a variation of the popular trans-cultural name Amari with the Da- prefix. Amari means "eternal" in Hebrew and may mean "strength" in Yoruba, though other sources list the African meaning as unknown.
  20. Devona
    • Description:

      Devona is a feminine name with Celtic roots, possibly derived from the county of Devon in England, which takes its name from the Dumnonii tribe who lived there in ancient times. The name emerged in the mid-20th century as parents sought distinctive yet melodious names with historical connections. Devona has never been widely popular, remaining a rare choice that offers uniqueness without being completely unfamiliar in sound or structure. The name carries a gentle, flowing quality with its soft consonants and open vowels. It appeals to parents drawn to names with a subtle connection to British heritage and those seeking uncommon names that are nonetheless intuitive in spelling and pronunciation.