Dervish

religious mendicant or ascetic
Persian origin · Unisex name
50% boys50% girls
#1801US 2023
10Births / yr
Stable
Top 1.3%Percentile

What does Dervish mean and where does it come from?

The term 'dervish' originates from the Persian word 'darvīsh', referring to a member of a Sufi religious order known for their ascetic lifestyle.

Cultural significance
Dervishes are often associated with Sufism, practicing poverty and devotion, and are known for their whirling dances as a form of meditation.
Peak popularity
Reached #1801 in 2015 — currently #1801 in the US.
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Related Reading
Persian-origin baby names with timeless appeal
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How else can you spell Dervish?

Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive

What middle names flow best with Dervish?

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

Dervish Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Dervish John
One syllable · timeless choice
Dervish Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Dervish Grace
One syllable · timeless choice
Dervish Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Dervish Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
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Middle Names
The best middle names for Dervish
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How popular is Dervish right now?

Holding steady — currently #1801 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 20192023#1801 · Top 1.3%
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
YearUS RankBirthsvs Prior Year
2023#180110stable
2022#180110stable
2021#180110stable
2020#180110stable
2019#180110
💎Dervish is exceptionally rare — it does not appear in US Social Security records, meaning fewer than 5 babies per year have received this name.

What are good nicknames for Dervish?

Common
DerDeErvish

Common questions about the name Dervish

What does the name Dervish mean?
Dervish means "religious mendicant or ascetic" — a name rooted in Persian 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 Dervish?
Dervish is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Dervish?
Dervish originates from Persian tradition. Persian names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Dervish a common or rare name?
Dervish is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Dervish more of a girl or boy name?
Dervish is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.