Declining since 2014, #2,991 for boys today.
Popularity of Dempsey since 1880
Babies named Dempsey per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1880s | 0 | 42 |
| 1890s | 0 | 42 |
| 1900s | 0 | 67 |
| 1910s | 0 | 314 |
| 1920s | 11 | 704 |
| 1930s | 0 | 403 |
| 1940s | 13 | 398 |
| 1950s | 0 | 368 |
| 1960s | 0 | 235 |
| 1970s | 0 | 181 |
| 1980s | 0 | 139 |
| 1990s | 34 | 165 |
| 2000s | 46 | 199 |
| 2010s | 257 | 674 |
| 2020s | 189 | 318 |
Meaning & origin
Dempsey, an anglicized form of the Irish surname Ó Díomasaigh, carries a meaning rooted in pride and haughtiness. While it has been in use as a given name since at least 1880, it reached its peak popularity in 1919, ranking among the top 1,000 names for boys. Since 2014, its usage has been declining, yet it remains a distinctive choice. Dempsey is most common in Indiana and Texas, reflecting its enduring appeal in certain regions. As a surname-turned-first-name, it fits a modern trend of using family names, though its Irish heritage gives it a traditional depth.
Dempsey is an anglicized form of the Irish surname Ó Díomasaigh, meaning 'descendant of Díomasach'. The personal name Díomasach derives from the Irish word 'díomas', meaning 'pride' or 'haughtiness'. Originally a surname borne by a leading sept in County Offaly, Dempsey has been used as a given name since the late 19th century, particularly in Ireland and among the Irish diaspora.
Where Dempsey is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Dem, Demp
Sibling names for Dempsey
Names that share Dempsey's style, for a brother or sister.
