Demon

Meaning & origin

Demon is a rare and provocative name that first appeared on U.S. birth records in 1969. Its usage peaked in 1975, with a recent revival starting in 2017. Despite its potentially controversial associations, the name has been given to boys at a rate of about 1 in 341,615 newborns in 2025, ranking 12,008th. The etymology is ambiguous: it could be a variant of the classic Greek name Damon or a modern invention drawing on the English word 'demon,' which originally held a neutral meaning of 'spirit.' The name's rarity and unconventional nature make it a bold choice, often favored by parents seeking a distinctive identity. Unlike many rare names that appear in various states, Demon has no recorded top states, suggesting its usage is scattered widely. Its trajectory shows a rising trend in the 2020s, indicating a possible niche appeal.

The name Demon is rare and of uncertain origin. It may be a variant spelling of Damon, a Greek name meaning 'to tame' or 'constant', but it is more likely a modern coinage inspired by the English word 'demon', which derives from the Greek 'daimon' meaning 'spirit' or 'divine power'. In ancient Greek, 'daimon' referred to a guiding spirit and did not carry the negative connotation of later Christian usage. Given its first recorded appearance in the United States in 1969, Demon appears to be a contemporary invention, possibly influenced by popular culture or an edgy aesthetic. It has seen sporadic use ever since, particularly in the 1970s, with a revival beginning in 2017.