Defne

“laurel (bay tree)” — Associated with victory and accomplishment

Turkey origin · Girl name

♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls

#4587US 2023

30Births / yr

↑Rising

519All-time births

📅 Since 199300

What does Defne mean and where does it come from?

Defne (pronounced /dɛfˈne/) is a Turkish name that means 'laurel'. In ancient times, laurel was associated with victory and accomplishment, often worn as a crown by victors in Greece and Rome. The name has been used in Turkey since at least the 20th century and gained popularity in modern times, inc

Cultural significance

Defne has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Turkey-speaking communities, where it reflects values of laurel (bay tree).

Peak popularity

Reached #3170 in 2017 — currently #4587 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Defne?

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

Defne Grace

How popular is Defne right now?

Rising fast — up 1238 spots — currently #4587 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 2000–2023#4587 · Top 3.4%

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#4587	30	▲ up 1238 · +43% births
2022	#5825	21	▼ down 217 · -5% births
2021	#5608	22	▼ down 685 · -15% births
2020	#4923	26	▲ up 9 · -7% births
2015	#4932	28	▲ up 1388 · +33% births
2010	#6320	21	▲ up 750 · +24% births
2005	#7070	17	▲ up 1949 · +55% births
2000	#9019	11	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Defne

Best Year2023Rank #4587

Peak Count30

Average Rank#6036

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range2000 - 20238 years

The story of Defne

Defne is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1993. With 519 total births recorded, Defne remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #9019 in 2000 to #4587 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Defne in 2017:

Emma Olivia Ava Isabella Sophia

Defne by decade

Defne peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →

Decade	Births
1990s	26
2000s	151
2010s ★	316
2020s	26

💎Defne has only 519 total recorded births since 1993 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Defne?

Common

DefDe

What names sound and feel like Defne?

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

Denne

American · English

Defoe

French · A French name

Deone

American · English

Dene

English · Meaning 'valley' or

Deane

American · valley

Deene

United Kingdom · English

Deune

French · A French name

Dafne

Greek · Laurel tree

Common questions about the name Defne

What does the name Defne mean?

Defne means "laurel (bay tree)" — a name rooted in Turkey 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 Defne?

Defne 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 Defne?

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

How does Defne sound with different last names?

As a one-syllable name, Defne flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Defne ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.

Is Defne a common or rare name?

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