Holding steady.
Popularity of Dare since 1916
Babies named Dare per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1910s | 10 | 0 |
| 1920s | 13 | 21 |
| 1930s | 10 | 0 |
| 1940s | 10 | 0 |
| 1950s | 12 | 11 |
| 1960s | 5 | 0 |
| 1970s | 5 | 5 |
| 1980s | 0 | 0 |
| 1990s | 0 | 21 |
| 2000s | 0 | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 | 5 |
| 2020s | 0 | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Dare is a rare and short name in American records, first appearing in 1916. Its peak year was 1921, when it saw its highest usage, though it has never been a common choice. The trajectory of the name has been stable over the past century, with no significant revival in recent decades. While no top states are associated with Dare, it reflects an early 20th-century English trend of concise, surname-derived given names. Due to its rarity, data on current usage is limited, but it remains a distinctive option for parents seeking an uncommon name.
The name Dare is of uncertain origin. It may be a variant of Darr, an English surname, or a diminutive of names like Darrell or Daryl, which themselves have debated roots. Alternatively, it could be a modern coinage from the English word 'dare,' meaning to have courage. Records show sporadic use in the early 20th century, with a peak in 1921, but it has never been common.
Nicknames & variants
Variants: Darr
Sibling names for Dare
Names that share Dare's style, for a brother or sister.
