MallowbyNames

Dava

DAY-vuh · Of uncertain origin; possibly a variant of David or a modern coinage.

2025 rank (girls)
#14,942
Babies named in 2025
5
Peak popularity
1954
2025 frequency
1 in 321,453 girls
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady, #14,942 for girls today.

Popularity of Dava since 1931

Babies named Dava per year in U.S. Social Security records.

17335019602000Most births 1954Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1930s29
1940s91
1950s258
1960s262
1970s302
1980s190
1990s151
2000s86
2010s87
2020s31

Meaning & origin

Dava is a rare and enigmatic name that first appeared in U.S. records in 1931 with just a handful of births. It saw its peak usage in 1954, though even then it never entered widespread popularity. In recent years, the name has remained very infrequent; the trajectory grade is 'stable,' indicating no significant upward or downward trend. The name is virtually absent from any state-level data, reflecting its niche appeal. Parents drawn to minimal, vowel-heavy names may find Dava a distinctive choice, though its etymology remains unclear. The name's modern pattern suggests it could be a creative variation of David or an independent coinage.

Dava is a rare name of uncertain derivation. It may have emerged as a feminine form of David, based on the Hebrew name meaning 'beloved,' or as a modern invention unrelated to any traditional name. Since 1931, it has seen sporadic use in the United States, never reaching high popularity.

Sibling names for Dava

Names that share Dava's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Mara, Lena, Nora, Ada, Vera

Brothers: Milo, Leo, Owen, Evan, Theo

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

D is for Dava, our favorite little girl.

D is for Dava…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Dava's letter becomes Dava's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Dava's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Dava mean?
The meaning of Dava is uncertain. It may be a variant of David or a modern invention.
How popular is the name Dava?
Dava is very rare. As of 2025, it ranks 14,942 in the U.S., with about 1 in 321,453 newborns given the name.
Is Dava a boy or girl name?
Dava is primarily used for girls.