Dave

1. Dave name meaning and origin

The name Dave originated as a diminutive form of David, a name with ancient Hebrew roots. Derived from the Hebrew name "דָּוִד" (Dawid), it carries the meaning of "beloved" or "cherished one." As a standalone name, Dave gained popularity particularly in English-speaking countries during the 20th century, offering a more casual alternative to the formal David.

The biblical significance of David, from which Dave derives, contributes substantially to its widespread adoption across cultures. King David of Israel, described as a shepherd, musician, and warrior in biblical accounts, lent considerable prestige to the name throughout history. This prestigious association helped Dave maintain its appeal through generations, evolving from a nickname into an independent given name that has consistently ranked among popular male names in the United States, United Kingdom, and other English-speaking regions.

2. Dave name popularity

Girl
Boy
#0
in 2023
0
from 2022
Popularity of Dave
United States
United Kingdom

Dave is predominantly a masculine name with usage in both the United States and the United Kingdom. While specific ranking data isn't available in our current information, Dave is often recognized as a familiar diminutive of David, a name with biblical origins meaning "beloved." Its straightforward, single-syllable structure contributed to its popularity throughout the 20th century.

In American culture, Dave has projected an image of approachability and reliability, appearing frequently in popular media. Though primarily considered a male name, there is some record of female usage in the United States, albeit much less common. The name tends to evoke a friendly, unpretentious character, making it a enduring choice across English-speaking countries.

3. Variations and nicknames of Dave

The name Dave, a beloved diminutive of David, carries a rich history across numerous cultures and languages. In English-speaking countries, David often transforms into Dave, Davey, or Davy as affectionate shortenings. The Hebrew origin 'David' has spawned variants including Dawid (Polish), Dávid (Hungarian), Davide (Italian), and Davi (Portuguese). Other cultural adaptations include Taavi in Finnish, Daoud in Arabic, and Dewi in Welsh. Throughout history, the name has maintained its popularity while developing distinct regional characteristics that reflect linguistic patterns of different societies.

Beyond standard variations, Dave has accumulated numerous playful nicknames. Friends might call someone Big Dave, Davester, Dave-O, or D-Man. In childhood, Davey-boy or Little Dave might stick, while professional settings might see someone referred to as D or simply D.C. (using the initials of Dave combined with a surname). Celebrities named David often embrace distinctive forms – musician David Bowie was known as Ziggy, while actor David Duchovny often goes by DD. Regional influences also create unique diminutives: Dai serves as a Welsh shortening, while Dáithí represents the Irish form. The versatility of Dave demonstrates how even common names develop rich ecosystems of variants, reflecting both linguistic evolution and personal connections that transform a standard name into an expression of identity and affection.

4. Best name combinations with Dave

Middle names that pair well with Dave:

  • David Alexander
  • David James
  • David Christopher
  • David Michael
  • David William
  • David Thomas
  • David Benjamin
  • David Robert
  • David Jonathan
  • David Charles
  • David Edward
  • David Nicholas
  • David Elijah
  • David Theodore
  • David Sebastian
  • David Nathaniel
  • David Maxwell
  • David Harrison
  • David Elliott
  • David Gabriel

Names that go well when Dave is used as a middle name:

  • James David
  • Alexander David
  • William David
  • Joseph David
  • Thomas David
  • Daniel David
  • Matthew David
  • Andrew David
  • Benjamin David
  • Christopher David
  • Samuel David
  • Robert David
  • Jonathan David
  • Michael David
  • Anthony David
  • Nicholas David
  • Charles David
  • Henry David
  • Edward David
  • Theodore David

5. Numerology of Dave name

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

13/4
D(4) + A(1) + V(4) + E(5) = 14, reduced to 4
Number 4 suggests a practical, methodical, and reliable nature. You have strong organizational skills and a disciplined approach to life. In career, you excel in structured environments requiring attention to detail and systematic thinking. In relationships, you're loyal and value stability, though may sometimes appear rigid. You build foundations for long-term success through persistence.

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire Number):

6
A(1) + E(5) = 6
Number 6 reveals your inner desire for harmony and balance. You have a nurturing spirit and find fulfillment in caring for others. In career, you're drawn to helping professions or roles involving responsibility for others. In relationships, you're loving and supportive, sometimes taking on too much responsibility. You seek beauty and peace in your surroundings.

Personality Number:

8
D(4) + V(4) = 8
Number 8 represents how others perceive you—as confident, authoritative, and business-minded. You project an image of competence and efficiency. In career, you appear ambitious and capable of leadership. In relationships, you may come across as strong-willed or intimidating initially. You demonstrate an ability to manage material resources effectively and achieve tangible results.

Note: This numerology analysis is just for fun and entertainment purposes. It is not meant to be taken seriously or as a reflection of one’s true personality or destiny. No offense is intended.

6. Dave name in pop culture

Name
Description
Dave Bowman
Main character in Stanley Kubrick's 1968 film '2001: A Space Odyssey' who famously confronts the AI system HAL 9000
Dave Lister
Last human alive character played by Craig Charles in the British sci-fi comedy series 'Red Dwarf'
Dave Grohl
Former Nirvana drummer who founded the rock band Foo Fighters and has become an iconic figure in music
Dave (film)
1993 comedy film starring Kevin Kline as Dave Kovic, an ordinary man who impersonates the President of the United States
Dave Matthews Band
Popular American rock band formed in 1991, known for hits like 'Crash Into Me' and 'Satellite'

7. Famous people named Dave

Name
Description
Dave Grohl
American musician, former drummer for Nirvana and founder of Foo Fighters, known for his contributions to rock music across multiple decades
Dave Chappelle
Acclaimed American stand-up comedian and actor known for 'Chappelle's Show' and Netflix comedy specials that have won multiple Emmy Awards
Dave Matthews
South African-American musician and founder of Dave Matthews Band, known for hits like 'Crash Into Me' and 'Satellite'
Dave Bautista
Former WWE wrestling champion who transitioned to acting with roles in 'Guardians of the Galaxy' as Drax and other major films
Dave Franco
American actor known for roles in '21 Jump Street,' 'Now You See Me,' and 'The Disaster Artist,' brother of actor James Franco
Dave Eggers
American writer, editor and publisher known for works like 'A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius' and founding McSweeney's publishing house
Dave Brubeck
Legendary American jazz pianist and composer known for innovative time signatures and classics like 'Take Five' and 'Blue Rondo à la Turk'
Dave Coulier
American actor, comedian and voice actor best known for playing Joey Gladstone on the sitcom 'Full House' and its sequel 'Fuller House'
Dave Barry
Pulitzer Prize-winning American humor columnist and author known for his satirical take on everyday life in numerous books and newspaper columns
Dave Winfield
Baseball Hall of Famer who played 22 seasons in Major League Baseball, was a 12-time All-Star and won 7 Gold Glove Awards

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