Associated with strength and protection · Israel origin
What does Dov mean and where does it come from?
Dov (דוב) is a Hebrew name that means 'bear.' In Jewish culture, bears are often associated with strength and protection. The name is quite prevalent in Israel and among Jewish communities worldwide. Dov is also used metaphorically to signify a nurturing yet strong character. There are notable figur
Cultural significance
Dov has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Israel-speaking communities, where it reflects values of bear.
Peak popularity
Reached #1280 in 2016 — currently #1264 in the US.
Declining — down 36 spots — currently #1264 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1955–2023#1264 · Top 0.93%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1264
152
▼ down 36 · -5% births
2022
#1228
160
▲ up 81 · +12% births
2021
#1309
143
▲ up 216 · +32% births
2020
#1525
108
▼ down 94 · -9% births
2015
#1431
119
▲ up 472 · +59% births
2010
#1903
75
▲ up 286 · +36% births
2005
#2189
55
▲ up 14 · +22% births
2000
#2203
45
▼ down 44 · +18% births
1995
#2159
38
▼ down 92 · +6% births
1990
#2067
36
▼ down 350
1985
#1717
36
▲ up 117 · +16% births
1980
#1834
31
▲ up 35 · +19% births
1975
#1869
26
▲ up 109 · +24% births
1970
#1978
21
▲ up 377 · +62% births
1965
#2355
13
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Dov
2022Rank #1228
160
#1845
↗Rising
1955 - 202317 years
The story of Dov
Dov entered American naming records in 1949 and has been in use for over 75 years. With 2,896 total births recorded, Dov remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2427 in 1955 to #1264 in 2023.
Dov means "bear" — a name rooted in Israel 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 Dov?
Dov is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Dov have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Dov?
Dov originates from Israel tradition. Israel 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 Dov?
Dov is a one-syllable name pronounced D AA1 V. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Dov sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Dov flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Dov ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Sibling names that pair with Dov
For a sister
Dov & Hannah♡
Dov & Israel♡
Dov & Cohen♡
Dov & Gabriela♡
For a brother
Dov & Jordan♡
Dov & Israel♡
Dov & Cohen♡
Dov & Gabriela♡
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