Dorcus
gazelle
Greek origin · Unisex name
2% boys98% girls
#1939US 2023
261Births / yr
Stable
287All-time births
📅 Since 191700

What does Dorcus mean and where does it come from?

Dorcus is derived from the Greek word 'dorcas' (δορκάς), meaning 'gazelle' or 'female deer.' It is mentioned in the Christian Bible in the Book of Acts, where Dorcas, also known as Tabitha, was known for her good works and charity. Historically, Dorcus was relatively common in certain Christian cont

Cultural significance
Dorcus has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greek-speaking communities, where it reflects values of greek.
Peak popularity
Reached #2940 in 1931 — currently #1939 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greek-origin baby names with timeless appeal
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What middle names flow best with Dorcus?

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

Dorcus Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Dorcus Rose
Floral · soft ending
Dorcus Mae
Sweet · timeless
Dorcus Claire
French influence · crisp
Dorcus Jane
Literary · strong
Dorcus Skye
Modern · airy feel
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Middle Names
The best middle names for Dorcus
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How popular is Dorcus right now?

Holding steady — currently #1939 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 19202023#1939 · Top 1.4%
1920
1925
1930
1935
1945
1950
1955
1960
1965
2021
2022
2023
YearUS RankBirthsvs Prior Year
2023#1939261▲ up 5 · +8% births
2022#1944241▲ up 5 · +14% births
2021#1949211▲ up 2652 · +2244% births
1965#46019▼ down 578 · -18% births
1960#402311▼ down 109 · +10% births
1955#391410▲ up 1730 · +100% births
1950#56445▼ down 1762 · -29% births
1945#38827▲ up 746 · +40% births
1935#46285▼ down 223 · -17% births
1930#44056▼ down 63 · -14% births
1925#43427▼ down 1249 · -36% births
1920#309311

The story of Dorcus

Dorcus entered American naming records in 1917 and has been in use for over 107 years. With 287 total births recorded, Dorcus remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3093 in 1920 to #1939 in 2023. Dorcus is used for both genders: 98% female and 2% male.

Names that peaked alongside Dorcus in 1931:

Dorcus by decade

Dorcus peaked in the 1930s. See all 1930s names →

DecadeBirths
1910s15
1920s49
1930s62
1940s30
1950s57
1960s53
1970s16
1980s5
💎Dorcus has only 287 total recorded births since 1917 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Dorcus?

Common
DorDoOrcus

Famous people named Dorcus

D(
Dorcus (modern Greek athlete)
Dorcus brought this name to international sporting recognition representing Greece.
D(
Dorcus (Greek mythological figure)
Dorcus carried this name in Greek mythology, connecting it to divine or heroic tradition.
D(
Dorcus (Byzantine leader)
Dorcus used this name through the Byzantine Empire, preserving its Greek heritage into the medieval era.
D(
Dorcus (Greek poet or artist)
Dorcus helped establish this as a name of cultural and artistic prestige in the Hellenic world.
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Common questions about the name Dorcus

What does the name Dorcus mean?
Dorcus means "Greek" — a name rooted in Greek 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 Dorcus?
Dorcus 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 Dorcus?
Dorcus originates from Greek tradition. Greek names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Dorcus a common or rare name?
Dorcus is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Dorcus more of a girl or boy name?
Dorcus is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.