Da & De Names
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.
- 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.
- Demetrius
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"follower of Demeter"Description:
Classical and Shakespearean name that may appeal if you like your names long, flowing and multicultural.
- 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."
- 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.
- Dakari
Origin:
AfricanMeaning:
"rejoice"Description:
This name from the Shona language is a new entrant to the Top 1000 in the US.
- 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.
- Dangelo
Origin:
Spelling variation of DeangeloDescription:
Even less popular than the rarely-used Deangelo. This spelling is likely helped by singer-songwriter and record producer D'Angelo.
- Demarion
Description:
Demarion is a contemporary masculine name with African-American roots, emerging as a distinctive variation of names like Damon, Damian, or Marion. Often seen as a combination of the popular prefix 'De-' with 'Marion,' it creates a unique, modern identity. The name gained traction in the United States primarily in the late 1990s and early 2000s, reflecting the trend toward creative naming patterns with distinctive prefixes and suffixes. Though not among the most common names, Demarion has maintained steady usage in diverse communities. The name conveys strength and individuality, with its rhythmic three-syllable pronunciation giving it a memorable quality that balances uniqueness with accessibility.
- 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.
- Deandra
Origin:
Compound name, blending Diana and Alexandra, variation of DeandreMeaning:
"divine defender of man; person from the valley"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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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").
- 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.
- Dejana
Description:
Dejana is a feminine name with Slavic origins, particularly popular in Serbia, Croatia, and other Balkan countries. The name is derived from the Slavic word for "deed" or "action," suggesting someone who is accomplished or effective. Dejana carries a melodic quality with its three-syllable pronunciation (de-YA-na), making it appealing cross-culturally. While relatively uncommon in Western countries, it has maintained consistent usage in Eastern Europe. The name combines uniqueness with an intuitive pronunciation for English speakers. Dejana may also be connected to the name Diana in some interpretations, sharing associations with grace and beauty. For parents seeking a distinctive yet accessible international name, Dejana offers cultural richness and feminine elegance.
- 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.
- Dashawn
Origin:
Variation of DeShawnMeaning:
"God is gracious"Description:
DeShawn or Deshawn is the more popular variation, but Dashawn charted from the late 1980s until 2010, which means it's on its way to becoming a Dad Name. Traditionally, the De or Da prefix means "son of", so this name means "son of Shawn", with Shawn a variation of John.
- 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.