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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Dakari
Origin:
AfricanMeaning:
"rejoice"Description:
This name from the Shona language is a new entrant to the Top 1000 in the US.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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").
- Dajuana
Description:
Dajuana appears to be a modern given name that emerged in the United States during the latter half of the 20th century. It may be a creative spelling variant of Diana or Dianna, possibly influenced by the prefix 'Da-' which became a popular naming element in American naming trends. The name shows documented usage beginning in the 1970s and 1980s, though it has remained relatively uncommon. Pronunciation typically follows a pattern of 'duh-JWAH-nuh' or 'day-JWAH-nuh'. The name doesn't have a clearly documented etymological origin in traditional naming systems but represents the trend of phonetically distinctive names that emerged in American naming practices of the late 20th century. Usage data suggests Dajuana peaked in popularity in the 1980s but has become increasingly rare in recent decades.
- Davesia
Description:
Davesia is a feminine name that appears to be a modern creation, likely derived from Davis or David with a feminine suffix. The name David originates from Hebrew, meaning 'beloved,' and Davesia extends this meaning with a melodic, feminine quality. The suffix '-esia' gives the name an elegant, somewhat exotic flair reminiscent of place names like Indonesia or Polynesia. Davesia remains quite rare, never having appeared on major popularity charts, which makes it an uncommon choice for parents seeking distinctiveness. The name has a rhythmic quality with its three syllables and may appeal to those wanting to honor someone named David while creating a uniquely feminine variation. Its scarcity gives it a special quality for the relatively few who bear it.
- 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.
- 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.
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