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.
RELATED:
- Demetrius
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"follower of Demeter"Description:
Classical and Shakespearean name that may appeal if you like your names long, flowing and multicultural.
- Dakaria
Description:
Dakaria is a contemporary feminine name with a melodic quality. While its exact origins are unclear, it may be a modern variant of names like Dakota or Zakaria, or possibly a newly created name blending elements from different naming traditions. The name has a musical flow with its alternating consonants and vowels, giving it an elegant and distinctive sound. Dakaria likely emerged within the last few decades as part of the trend toward unique names with appealing rhythms. Though relatively uncommon, it appeals to parents seeking distinctive names that still feel accessible and pronounceable. The name conveys a sense of uniqueness and modernity while maintaining a feminine quality that works well in diverse cultural contexts.
- 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.
- Delora
Origin:
English ariation of Dolores, SpanishMeaning:
"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.
- 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.
- Dakari
Origin:
AfricanMeaning:
"rejoice"Description:
This name from the Shona language is a new entrant to the Top 1000 in the US.
- 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.
- Denisha
Origin:
American variation of Denise, French from GreekMeaning:
"god of Nysa"Description:
Typical of formula that takes a traditional name syllable and adds -isha ending.
- Deonte
Description:
Deonte appears to be a modern American name that emerged in the latter half of the 20th century. The name likely combines the popular prefix 'De-' (found in many names like Deon, Deandre, and Devon) with elements possibly inspired by names like Dante or Monte. The 'De-' prefix may derive from French or Latin origins meaning 'of' or 'from.' Usage records show Deonte gaining recognition in the United States primarily in the 1980s and 1990s, with continued but declining usage into the 21st century. The name represents the trend of distinctive prefix-modified names and creative combinations that became established in American naming patterns during this period. While not among the most common names, it has maintained consistent usage in various communities across the United States since its emergence.
- Devaughn
Description:
Devaughn is a contemporary name that appears to be a variant spelling of DeVon or Devin, with the distinctive '-vaughn' ending that may be influenced by the surname Vaughn (from Welsh, meaning 'small'). The prefix 'De-' is found in many names of various origins, including French and Latin roots meaning 'of' or 'from.' Devaughn gained modest recognition in the United States particularly from the 1980s onward. The name's popularity peaked in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The spelling variation with 'gh' gives the name a distinctive quality while maintaining its phonetic pronunciation. Usage patterns show that Devaughn has been embraced across diverse communities in the United States, particularly from the late 20th century onward.
- Demika
Description:
Demika appears to be a modern given name that emerged in the United States in the latter part of the 20th century. The name may be constructed from the prefix "De-" (which appears in many names and can mean "from" or "of" in Latin-derived terms) combined with "Mika," which has roots in multiple languages including as a diminutive of Michael (Hebrew, meaning "who is like God") or as a standalone name in Japanese and other languages. The name gained some usage in the 1980s and 1990s but remained relatively uncommon. It follows a phonetic pattern seen in several contemporary American names with the melodic combination of consonants and vowels and the "ka" ending. Various spelling variations might include Damika or Demeka.
- Dalena
Description:
Dalena is a flowing feminine name with multiple potential origins. It likely functions as an elaboration of Dale, meaning 'valley,' with the feminine suffix '-ena' adding elegance. It may also relate to Magdalena, or derive from Slavic elements meaning 'distant' or 'far away.' This melodic name carries a gentle, romantic quality while remaining uncommon enough to feel distinctive. Despite its appealing sound and traditional structure, Dalena has maintained a relatively rare status in English-speaking countries, making it an intriguing option for parents seeking something both beautiful and unique. The name's three-syllable rhythm and soft consonants create a graceful impression, while its potential nature-based meaning adds an element of serene beauty that resonates with contemporary naming preferences.
- Deangelo
Origin:
ItalianMeaning:
"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."
- Demarco
Description:
Demarco is a masculine given name that combines the prefix 'De' (often indicating 'of' or 'from' in Romance languages) with 'Marco,' the Italian form of Mark. The name Mark itself derives from Latin 'Marcus,' possibly stemming from Mars, the Roman god of war. Demarco likely emerged as a surname in Italian communities before transitioning to use as a given name. In the United States, it gained modest popularity in the latter half of the 20th century, particularly from the 1970s onward. The name has been used across diverse communities and carries both Italian linguistic roots and contemporary American naming patterns. While never among the most popular names nationally, Demarco has maintained consistent usage. The name has been borne by various athletes, musicians, and other public figures, contributing to its recognition.
- Daleah
Description:
Daleah is a feminine name that blends natural imagery with melodic sounds. It may be derived from 'dale,' meaning valley, combined with the feminine suffix '-ah' or a variation of names like Dalila or Dalia. This modern creation has Hebrew and Old English influences, suggesting a connection to both nature and gentle beauty. While relatively uncommon in popularity rankings, Daleah has gained modest recognition in recent decades as parents seek unique yet accessible names. Its pleasant rhythm and straightforward pronunciation make it appealing despite its rarity. The name evokes images of peaceful landscapes and carries a subtle elegance. Daleah remains an under-the-radar choice that offers individuality without complexity.
- Dashawna
Origin:
American variation of ShawnaDescription:
One of many now-downscale names that begin with Da- or De-, a prefix that originally indicated patrimony.
- Deandre
Origin:
Modern invented nameMeaning:
"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.
- Demario
Description:
Demario combines the prefix 'De-' with 'Mario.' Mario is derived from the Latin name Marius, which may have originated from Mars, the Roman god of war, or possibly from the Latin 'mas' meaning 'male.' The 'De-' prefix is a common addition in modern American naming practices, possibly influenced by French, Italian, or Spanish naming traditions where 'De' often indicates 'of' or 'from.' Demario emerged in the United States during the mid-20th century and saw increased popularity during the 1970s-1990s. The name appears across diverse communities but has been particularly documented in southern states. Some variations include De'Mario or DeMario, with different styling of the prefix. The name exemplifies how traditional names are often modified with prefixes to create distinctive variations.
- 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.
- Dewayne
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"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").
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