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.
- 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.
- Dakari
Origin:
AfricanMeaning:
"rejoice"Description:
This name from the Shona language is a new entrant to the Top 1000 in the US.
- 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.
- Deandra
Origin:
English combination of Diana and Alexandra, feminization of DeandreMeaning:
"divine defender of man; strong and manly"Description:
An alternative spelling to Diandra or a feminine form Deandre, Deandra is a compound name that briefly featured in the US Top 1000 in the 80s.
- 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.
- 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.
- Damarcus
Description:
Damarcus is a masculine name that appears to be a modern compound formation. It likely combines the prefix 'Da-' (a popular contemporary prefix in many names) with 'Marcus,' a name of Latin origin meaning 'dedicated to Mars' (the Roman god of war). The name emerged primarily in the United States during the latter part of the 20th century. This formation follows a pattern seen in other modern names where prefixes are added to traditional names to create distinctive variations. Damarcus represents an evolution in naming practices where familiar elements are combined in novel ways. Usage data shows the name reached its peak popularity in the 1990s but continues to be chosen by parents seeking a strong-sounding name with both modern appeal and connections to the classical Marcus. The name's rhythm and distinctive sound pattern contribute to its continued usage.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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."
- Damari
Origin:
Variation of AmariDescription:
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.
- Deshan
Origin:
HindiMeaning:
"of the nation"Description:
Attractive Indian name unfamiliar to most Western parents.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Dalora
Description:
Dalora is a feminine name with ambiguous origins, possibly derived from a combination of elements from different naming traditions. It may be related to the Latin word 'dolor' meaning 'sorrow' or 'pain,' though modern usage has disconnected it from these roots. Alternatively, it could be a creative variation of names like Delora or Dolores, or a modern invention combining the popular 'Da-' prefix with 'Lora.' The name has a melodious quality with its flowing syllables and balanced vowel sounds. Dalora remains extremely rare worldwide, making it an uncommon choice for parents seeking a distinctive name with a feminine sound. Despite its rarity, the name has an intuitive pronunciation and a romantic, almost musical quality.
- 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.
- 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.
- Dalina
Description:
Dalina is a melodious feminine name with multicultural origins. It likely developed as a combination of the prefix "Dal-" (found in names like Dallas) with the feminine suffix "-ina." In Slavic languages, "dalina" relates to distance or valleys, while some connect it to Hebrew origins meaning "drawing water" or "branch." The name can also be seen as a diminutive form of names like Dalia or Magdalena. Dalina remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries but has seen modest usage in Eastern Europe and Latin America. Its appeal lies in its musical quality, exotic feel, and cultural adaptability. The name conveys a sense of delicacy and beauty while maintaining a distinctive character that stands out without being difficult to pronounce.
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