What does Dorcas mean and where does it come from?
Dorcas is derived from the Greek name Δορκάς (Dorkas), which means 'gazelle.' In the New Testament of the Bible, Dorcas is described in the Book of Acts as a virtuous woman known for her charitable works, particularly notable for sewing clothes for the poor. Her story signifies kindness and generosi
Cultural significance
Dorcas has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greece-speaking communities, where it reflects values of gazelle.
Peak popularity
Reached #522 in 1880 — currently #5598 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Greece-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Dorcas?
Dorcas works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Dorcas Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Dorcas Rose
Floral · soft ending
Dorcas Mae
Sweet · timeless
Dorcas Claire
French influence · crisp
Dorcas Jane
Literary · strong
Dorcas Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Dorcas right now?
Falling — down 539 spots — currently #5598 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #5598 | 22 | ▼ down 539 · -15% births |
| 2022 | #5059 | 26 | ▼ down 65 |
| 2021 | #4994 | 26 | ▼ down 951 · -24% births |
| 2020 | #4043 | 34 | ▲ up 533 · +13% births |
| 2015 | #4576 | 30 | ▲ up 1609 · +43% births |
| 2010 | #6185 | 21 | ▼ down 1359 · -22% births |
| 2005 | #4826 | 27 | ▼ down 427 |
| 2000 | #4399 | 27 | ▼ down 296 · +8% births |
| 1995 | #4103 | 25 | ▼ down 663 · -19% births |
| 1990 | #3440 | 31 | ▼ down 1186 · -31% births |
| 1985 | #2254 | 45 | ▼ down 2 · +2% births |
| 1980 | #2252 | 44 | ▼ down 20 · +19% births |
| 1975 | #2232 | 37 | ▼ down 326 · -18% births |
| 1970 | #1906 | 45 | ▼ down 553 · -32% births |
| 1965 | #1353 | 66 | — |
The story of Dorcas
Dorcas has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 7,131 total births recorded, Dorcas remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #522 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #5598 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Dorcas in 1880:
Dorcas by decade
Dorcas peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 104 | |
| 1890s | 145 | |
| 1900s | 226 | |
| 1910s | 771 | |
| 1920s ★ | 1,211 | |
| 1930s | 886 | |
| 1940s | 750 | |
| 1950s | 796 | |
| 1960s | 709 | |
| 1970s | 420 | |
| 1980s | 334 | |
| 1990s | 275 | |
| 2000s | 217 | |
| 2010s | 253 | |
| 2020s | 34 | |
💎With 7,131 total births, Dorcas is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Dorcas?
What names sound and feel like Dorcas?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Dorcas also consider these
How is Dorcas written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Dorcas
What does the name Dorcas mean?
Dorcas means "Gazelle" — a name rooted in Greece 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 Dorcas?
Dorcas 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 Dorcas?
Dorcas originates from Greece tradition. Greece names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Dorcas?
Dorcas is a two-syllable name pronounced D AO1 R K AH0 S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Dorcas a common or rare name?
Dorcas is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.