Dava

“gift”

American origin · Girl name

♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls

#15748US 2023

5Births / yr

↓Falling

1.5kAll-time births

📅 Since 193100

What does Dava mean and where does it come from?

Dava is a name that can be found in various cultures, including Hindi and Scottish origins. In Hindu culture, it often translates to 'gift' or 'offering', while in Scottish contexts, it could be used to indicate a geographical feature such as 'from the river'. Dava is relatively rare as a name but h

Cultural significance

Dava has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of gift.

Peak popularity

Reached #1436 in 1954 — currently #15748 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Dava?

Dava works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Dava Grace

How popular is Dava right now?

Falling — down 4382 spots — currently #15748 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1945–2023#15748 · Top 12%

1960

1965

1970

1975

1980

1985

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#15748	5	▼ down 4382 · -37% births
2021	#11366	8	▲ up 844 · +14% births
2020	#12210	7	▼ down 3702 · -46% births
2015	#8508	13	▲ up 3909 · +63% births
2010	#12417	8	▲ up 758 · +14% births
2005	#13175	7	▼ down 6299 · -53% births
2000	#6876	15	▼ down 855
1995	#6021	15	▼ down 117
1990	#5904	15	▼ down 1563 · -17% births
1985	#4341	18	▼ down 142
1980	#4199	18	▼ down 991 · -18% births
1975	#3208	22	▼ down 1175 · -46% births
1970	#2033	41	▲ up 245 · +46% births
1965	#2278	28	▲ up 202 · +17% births
1960	#2480	24	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Dava

Best Year1955Rank #1716

Peak Count41

Average Rank#6650

Current Trend↘Falling

Data Range1945 - 202318 years

The story of Dava

Dava entered American naming records in 1931 and has been in use for over 93 years. With 1,463 total births recorded, Dava remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #3628 in 1945, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #15748 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Dava in 1954:

Mary Linda Deborah Patricia Susan

Dava by decade

Dava peaked in the 1950s. See all 1950s names →

Decade	Births
1930s	29
1940s	91
1950s	258
1960s	262
1970s ★	302
1980s	190
1990s	151
2000s	86
2010s	87
2020s	7

💎With 1,463 total births, Dava is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Dava?

Common

DavDavieDavy

What names sound and feel like Dava?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Dava also consider these

Tava

American · Derived from the

Wava

American · wave

Dayva

American · light, brightness

Ava

Latin · life

Mava

Hebrew · אמא (Ima), meaning

Kava

Fiji · Fijian

Lava

Sanskrit · Dust, something that

Deava

American · Goddess or an

Common questions about the name Dava

What does the name Dava mean?

Dava means "gift" — a name rooted in American 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 Dava?

Dava is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl 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 Dava?

Dava originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.

Is Dava a common or rare name?

Dava is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.

What personality traits are associated with the name Dava?

Studies on name perception suggest that Dava is often associated with balance and approachability. Of course, personality is shaped by experience, not a name — but the perception can influence first impressions throughout life.