What does Denis mean and where does it come from?
Although predominantly a male name historically, Denis has seen use as a female name in recent times. Variants and related names include Denise. Famous figures include Denise Richards, an American actress and former model. The name has been used in various cultures, prominently in France and the Rus
Cultural significance
Denis has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in France-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #1643 in 2024 — currently #1712 in the US.
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Related Reading
France-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Denis?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Denis?
Denis works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Denis Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Denis John
One syllable · timeless choice
Denis Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Denis Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Denis Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Denis Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Denis right now?
Falling — down 69 spots — currently #1712 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #1712 | 95 | ▼ down 69 · -8% births |
| 2024 | #1643 | 103 | ▼ down 92 · -9% births |
| 2023 | #1551 | 113 | ▲ up 128 · +11% births |
| 2022 | #1679 | 102 | ▲ up 74 · +11% births |
| 2021 | #1753 | 92 | ▲ up 3521 · +300% births |
| 2020 | #5274 | 23 | ▲ up 1636 · +28% births |
| 2010 | #6910 | 18 | ▼ down 2200 · -36% births |
| 2005 | #4710 | 28 | ▲ up 997 · +47% births |
| 2000 | #5707 | 19 | ▲ up 3081 · +111% births |
| 1995 | #8788 | 9 | ▼ down 2639 · -36% births |
| 1990 | #6149 | 14 | ▼ down 105 · +27% births |
| 1985 | #6044 | 11 | ▼ down 1296 · -27% births |
| 1980 | #4748 | 15 | ▲ up 1760 · +88% births |
| 1975 | #6508 | 8 | ▼ down 1431 · -20% births |
| 1970 | #5077 | 10 | — |
The story of Denis
Denis entered American naming records in 1938 and has been in use for over 86 years. A total of 21,056 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4603 in 1945 to #1551 in 2023. Denis is used for both genders: 4% female and 96% male.
Names that peaked alongside Denis in 2024:
Denis by decade
Denis peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 81 | |
| 1890s | 68 | |
| 1900s | 55 | |
| 1910s | 300 | |
| 1920s | 616 | |
| 1930s | 1,656 | |
| 1940s | 3,737 | |
| 1950s ★ | 5,006 | |
| 1960s | 2,828 | |
| 1970s | 1,470 | |
| 1980s | 1,137 | |
| 1990s | 1,215 | |
| 2000s | 1,619 | |
| 2010s | 1,154 | |
| 2020s | 326 | |
What are good nicknames for Denis?
AFRICAN AMERICAN
DeionDeon
What names sound and feel like Denis?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Denis also consider these
How is Denis written in other languages?
What are the girl versions of Denis?
Common questions about the name Denis
What does the name Denis mean?
Denis means "English" — a name rooted in France 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 Denis?
Denis is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Denis?
Denis originates from France tradition. France names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Denis a common or rare name?
Denis is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Denis more of a girl or boy name?
Denis is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.