What does Dana mean and where does it come from?
The name Dana has multiple origins. In English usage, it may derive from a geographical name referring to Denmark. In Irish culture, Dana can also mean 'the wise', while in Hebrew, it translates to 'God is my judge', often used as a unisex name. The popularity of Dana has grown in several regions si
Cultural significance
Dana has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of from denmark.
Peak popularity
Reached #44 in 1971 — currently #976 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Dana?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Dana?
Dana works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Dana Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Dana Rose
Floral · soft ending
Dana Claire
French influence · crisp
Dana Jane
Literary · strong
Dana Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Dana right now?
Rising — up 45 spots — currently #976 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #976 | 264 | ▲ up 45 · +4% births |
| 2022 | #1021 | 253 | ▲ up 59 · +10% births |
| 2021 | #1080 | 231 | ▼ down 24 |
| 2020 | #1056 | 232 | ▼ down 202 · -29% births |
| 2015 | #854 | 326 | ▼ down 391 · -50% births |
| 2010 | #463 | 654 | ▼ down 66 · -17% births |
| 2005 | #397 | 791 | ▼ down 86 · -22% births |
| 2000 | #311 | 1,016 | ▼ down 141 · -42% births |
| 1995 | #170 | 1,756 | ▼ down 56 · -40% births |
| 1990 | #114 | 2,935 | ▼ down 32 · -12% births |
| 1985 | #82 | 3,346 | ▼ down 14 · -25% births |
| 1980 | #68 | 4,439 | ▼ down 6 · -4% births |
| 1975 | #62 | 4,621 | ▼ down 8 · -28% births |
| 1970 | #54 | 6,407 | ▲ up 23 · +36% births |
| 1965 | #77 | 4,726 | — |
The story of Dana
Dana has been a beloved American name for over 142 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1882. Its peak popularity was #44 in 1971. More than 245,478 babies have been named Dana since 1882. Dana is used for both genders: 78% female and 22% male.
Names that peaked alongside Dana in 1971:
Dana by decade
Dana peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 135 | |
| 1890s | 208 | |
| 1900s | 247 | |
| 1910s | 1,036 | |
| 1920s | 1,946 | |
| 1930s | 2,525 | |
| 1940s | 10,286 | |
| 1950s | 32,258 | |
| 1960s ★ | 61,128 | |
| 1970s | 59,686 | |
| 1980s | 41,475 | |
| 1990s | 21,403 | |
| 2000s | 8,708 | |
| 2010s | 4,179 | |
| 2020s | 258 | |
What are good nicknames for Dana?
What names sound and feel like Dana?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Dana also consider these
Common questions about the name Dana
What does the name Dana mean?
Dana means "from Denmark" — a name rooted in English tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Dana?
Dana is currently ranked #976 as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Dana?
Dana originates from English tradition. English names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Dana?
Dana is a two-syllable name pronounced D AE1 N AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Dana a common or rare name?
Dana is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.