What does Daphne mean and where does it come from?
Daphne is a name of Greek origin, derived from the word 'daphnē', meaning 'laurel tree' or 'bay tree'. In Greek mythology, Daphne was a nymph who was transformed into a laurel tree to escape Apollo's advances, thus making the name associated with victory and honor. The name has been in use since anc
Cultural significance
Daphne has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greek-speaking communities, where it reflects values of laurel tree or bay tree.
Peak popularity
Reached #266 in 1962 — currently #241 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greek-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Daphne?
Daphne works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Daphne Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Daphne Rose
Floral · soft ending
Daphne Mae
Sweet · timeless
Daphne Claire
French influence · crisp
Daphne Jane
Literary · strong
Daphne Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Daphne right now?
Rising — up 38 spots — currently #241 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #241 | 1,265 | ▲ up 38 · +12% births |
| 2022 | #279 | 1,132 | ▲ up 10 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #289 | 1,102 | ▲ up 126 · +48% births |
| 2020 | #415 | 744 | ▼ down 37 · -14% births |
| 2015 | #378 | 864 | ▲ up 111 · +40% births |
| 2010 | #489 | 618 | ▲ up 65 · +19% births |
| 2005 | #554 | 520 | ▲ up 79 · +32% births |
| 2000 | #633 | 395 | ▲ up 230 · +76% births |
| 1995 | #863 | 225 | ▼ down 98 · -16% births |
| 1990 | #765 | 268 | ▼ down 107 · -3% births |
| 1985 | #658 | 276 | ▼ down 19 · -3% births |
| 1980 | #639 | 285 | ▼ down 159 · -26% births |
| 1975 | #480 | 383 | ▼ down 120 · -44% births |
| 1970 | #360 | 684 | ▼ down 4 · +7% births |
| 1965 | #356 | 641 | — |
The story of Daphne
Daphne has been a beloved American name for over 138 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1886. A total of 37,356 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #726 in 1890 to #241 in 2023. Daphne is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Daphne in 1962:
Daphne by decade
Daphne peaked in the 1960s. See all 1960s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 26 | |
| 1890s | 131 | |
| 1900s | 162 | |
| 1910s | 498 | |
| 1920s | 1,057 | |
| 1930s | 764 | |
| 1940s | 1,321 | |
| 1950s | 2,789 | |
| 1960s | 6,936 | |
| 1970s | 4,827 | |
| 1980s | 2,697 | |
| 1990s | 2,520 | |
| 2000s | 5,124 | |
| 2010s ★ | 7,760 | |
| 2020s | 744 | |
What are good nicknames for Daphne?
Famous people named Daphne
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Daphne (Greek poet or artist)
Daphne helped establish this as a name of cultural and artistic prestige in the Hellenic world.
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Daphne (Greek mythological figure)
Daphne carried this name in Greek mythology, connecting it to divine or heroic tradition.
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Daphne (Byzantine leader)
Daphne used this name through the Byzantine Empire, preserving its Greek heritage into the medieval era.
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Daphne (Greek poet or artist)
Daphne helped establish this as a name of cultural and artistic prestige in the Hellenic world.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Daphne?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Daphne also consider these
How is Daphne written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Daphne
What does the name Daphne mean?
Daphne means "Laurel tree or bay tree" — a name rooted in Greek 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 Daphne?
Daphne is currently ranked #241 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Daphne have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Daphne?
Daphne originates from Greek tradition. Greek 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 Daphne?
Daphne is a two-syllable name pronounced D AE1 F N IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Daphne trending right now?
Daphne is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.