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. 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.
  3. Dakari
    • Origin:

      African
    • Meaning:

      "rejoice"
    • Description:

      This name from the Shona language is a new entrant to the Top 1000 in the US.
  4. 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.

  5. 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").

  6. 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.
  7. 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."
  8. 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.

  9. Dangelo
    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Deangelo
    • Description:

      Even less popular than the rarely-used Deangelo. This spelling is likely helped by singer-songwriter and record producer D'Angelo.
  10. 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.
  11. 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.
  12. 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.
  13. Demitrio
    • Description:

      Demitrio is a masculine name of Greek origin, representing a variation of Demetrius, derived from Demeter, the Greek goddess of agriculture and fertility. This melodic name carries the meaning "follower of Demeter" or "earth-lover." While less common than Demetrius or the Italian Demetrio, this variant has a distinctly Mediterranean flair with its Spanish or Portuguese-influenced spelling. Demitrio offers a softer, more flowing alternative to the traditional form while maintaining its classical roots. The name has never been among the most popular choices in English-speaking countries but maintains steady usage in Latin and Mediterranean communities. With its four syllables and rhythmic quality, Demitrio presents a distinctive yet accessible option for parents seeking a name with classical heritage and a warm, expressive sound.

  14. 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.

  15. 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.
  16. 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.
  17. 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.
  18. Delois
    • Description:

      Delois is a feminine name with French roots, likely a variation of Delores or a combination of the prefix 'de' with 'Lois.' It was most popular in the United States during the 1920s and 1930s, often found in Southern states. The name has a melodious quality and vintage charm that connects to a bygone era. While never extremely common, Delois had a steady presence through mid-20th century America before declining in usage. Today, it's considered a rare vintage name that might appeal to parents seeking something distinctive with historical resonance. Women named Delois are often called 'Dee' or 'Lois' as nicknames.
  19. Dashawn
    • Origin:

      Variation of DeShawn
    • Meaning:

      "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.
  20. Devaun
    • Description:

      Devaun appears to be a modern coined name that may have multiple origins. It could be a variant of Devon or Devin, which derive from the English county name, combined with a modified suffix. Alternatively, it might combine the prefix 'De-' (from Romance languages meaning 'of' or 'from') with 'vaun,' which could relate to the Welsh 'fawn' meaning 'pleased' or be a variant spelling of 'von.' The name emerged in usage primarily in the late 20th century in the United States. While not among the most common names, Devaun has maintained a consistent presence in naming records since the 1980s, primarily for boys. The name's distinctive spelling gives it a contemporary feel while potentially maintaining connections to traditional name elements.