Dorcas

“Gazelle”

Greece origin · Girl name

♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls

#5598US 2023

22Births / yr

↓Falling

7.1kAll-time births

📅 Since 188000.01% of births at peak

How to pronounce Dorcas

DAW·rkus

/ˈdɔ.rkəs/ · stress on DAW · 2 syllables

“Gazelle”

Greece origin · Girl name

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.

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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

How popular is Dorcas right now?

Falling — down 539 spots — currently #5598 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1880–2023#5598 · Top 4.1%

1965

1970

1975

1980

1985

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

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	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Dorcas

Best Year1925Rank #640

Peak Count130

Average Rank#2432

Current Trend↘Falling

Data Range1900 - 202328 years

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:

Mary Anna Emma Elizabeth Minnie

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?

Common

DorDoOrcas

What names sound and feel like Dorcas?

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

Aramaic · daughter of the

How is Dorcas written in other languages?

Δορκας

Ancient Greek

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.