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 #15473 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Dava?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
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 Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Dava Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Dava Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Dava Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Dava Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Dava Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Dava right now?
Falling — down 1573 spots — currently #15473 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #15473 | 5 | ▼ down 1573 · -17% births |
| 2024 | #13900 | 6 | ▲ up 1848 · +20% births |
| 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 | — |
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:
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 | 18 | |
💎With 1,463 total births, Dava is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Dava?
What names sound and feel like Dava?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Dava also consider these
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.