Davina, a name resonating with warmth and history, stands as a testament to enduring charm. Primarily a girl’s name, Davina is a variant of Davida, carrying the same essence as the feminine counterpart of David. Its origins trace back to Hebrew roots, where "David" signifies "beloved." The name further embraces the Scottish Gaelic elements of "deore," meaning "dear" or "precious," combined with the diminutive suffix "ling," adding a touch of endearment, meaning "little dear one" or "precious little one." The name Davina encapsulates qualities of love, preciousness, and a gentle spirit.
The Meaning Behind Davina
The name Davina‘s meaning goes beyond simple definitions. It represents a cherished individual, someone held in high regard and affection. The blending of Hebrew and Scottish Gaelic influences creates a name that is both strong and sweet, a reflection of a personality that is both admired and adored. The inherent "beloved" meaning connects the name to themes of harmony, relationships, and the importance of connection, suggesting a caring and compassionate nature.
Davina Name Popularity: A Historical Perspective
Analyzing the popularity of Davina reveals interesting trends. According to data from the Social Security Administration (SSA), Davina’s presence in the United States’ baby name charts has fluctuated over the years. While the name has never reached the pinnacle of popularity, it has maintained a steady presence, reflecting its enduring appeal.
A Look at the Numbers:
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910-1954 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1955 | 1,973 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1956-1961 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1962 | 1,852 | 10 | 0.0005% |
| 1963 | 1,638 | 15 | 0.0008% |
| 1964 | 1,661 | 14 | 0.0008% |
| 1965 | 1,440 | 21 | 0.0013% |
| 1966 | 1,462 | 20 | 0.0013% |
| 1967 | 1,037 | 53 | 0.0035% |
| 1968 | 825 | 103 | 0.0069% |
| 1969 | 885 | 91 | 0.0059% |
| 1970 | 866 | 105 | 0.0066% |
| 1971 | 781 | 135 | 0.009% |
| 1972 | 815 | 111 | 0.0081% |
| 1973 | 778 | 123 | 0.0095% |
| 1974 | 789 | 124 | 0.0095% |
| 1975 | 774 | 131 | 0.0102% |
| 1976 | 782 | 130 | 0.0101% |
| 1977 | 900 | 106 | 0.0079% |
| 1978 | 891 | 108 | 0.008% |
| 1979 | 772 | 155 | 0.011% |
| 1980 | 940 | 104 | 0.0071% |
| 1981 | 921 | 109 | 0.0074% |
| 1982 | 995 | 98 | 0.0066% |
| 1983 | 1,005 | 90 | 0.0061% |
| 1984 | 937 | 107 | 0.0072% |
| 1985 | 1,348 | 49 | 0.0032% |
| 1986 | 1,062 | 90 | 0.006% |
| 1987 | 944 | 120 | 0.0079% |
| 1988 | 1,024 | 107 | 0.0069% |
| 1989 | 1,272 | 73 | 0.0045% |
| 1990 | 1,229 | 87 | 0.0052% |
| 1991 | 1,375 | 68 | 0.0042% |
| 1992 | 1,262 | 88 | 0.0055% |
| 1993 | 1,323 | 79 | 0.0051% |
| 1994 | 1,511 | 56 | 0.0036% |
| 1995 | 1,502 | 56 | 0.0037% |
| 1996 | 1,294 | 81 | 0.0054% |
| 1997 | 1,382 | 72 | 0.0049% |
| 1998 | 1,297 | 84 | 0.0056% |
| 1999 | 1,313 | 86 | 0.0057% |
| 2000 | 1,656 | 53 | 0.0035% |
| 2001 | 1,641 | 57 | 0.0038% |
| 2002 | 1,599 | 62 | 0.0041% |
| 2003 | 1,705 | 55 | 0.0036% |
| 2004 | 1,966 | 40 | 0.0026% |
| 2005 | 2,163 | 32 | 0.0021% |
| 2006 | 1,955 | 44 | 0.0028% |
| 2007 | 1,748 | 60 | 0.0038% |
| 2008 | 1,848 | 52 | 0.0034% |
| 2009 | 1,568 | 77 | 0.0052% |
| 2010 | 1,664 | 64 | 0.0044% |
| 2011 | 1,575 | 69 | 0.0048% |
| 2012 | 1,520 | 75 | 0.0053% |
| 2013 | 1,485 | 77 | 0.0054% |
| 2014 | 1,159 | 137 | 0.0094% |
| 2015 | 1,141 | 145 | 0.01% |
| 2016 | 934 | 213 | 0.0148% |
| 2017 | 821 | 258 | 0.0185% |
| 2018 | 675 | 353 | 0.0257% |
| 2019 | 700 | 330 | 0.0244% |
| 2020 | 628 | 408 | 0.0321% |
| 2021 | 557 | 469 | 0.0384% |
| 2022 | 564 | 497 | 0.0377% |
| 2023 | 652 | 409 | 0.0316% |
The table illustrates that Davina experienced a period of relative popularity in the late 1960s and 1970s. While it has seen a decline since then, the name continues to be chosen by parents seeking a distinctive and meaningful name for their daughters. In recent years, while the rank has decreased, the number of births and percentage of births have increased, showing a resurgence in the name’s appeal.
Variations and Similar Names
One of the appeals of Davina is the array of variations and similar-sounding names that exist. These options offer parents the opportunity to find a name that perfectly suits their preferences while maintaining a connection to the original meaning and essence of Davina.
Variations of Davina:
- Daveen
- Davia
- Daviana
- Daviane
- Davianna
- Davida
- Davidina
- Davine
- Davinia
- Davita
- Davy
- Davynn
- Devina
- Divina
- Divinia
Names That Sound Like Davina:
- Dafna
- Daphna
- Davonna
- Devana
- Devin
- Devona
- Divine
Similar Names:
- Vina
These names share either similar sounds, origins, or meanings, providing a range of choices for those drawn to the charm of Davina.
Conclusion
Davina is a name imbued with love, history, and a touch of Scottish charm. Its "beloved" meaning and gentle sound make it a delightful choice for parents seeking a name that embodies affection and strength. While its popularity has fluctuated, Davina‘s enduring appeal speaks to its timeless quality, ensuring that it remains a cherished name for generations to come.