MallowbyNames

Denman

DEN-mən · English surname transferred to given name use, likely meaning 'valley of the Dane' from Old English denu 'valley' and Dena 'Dane'.

Peak popularity
1922
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Denman since 1915

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

3710192019602000Most births 1922Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1910s30
1920s57
1930s23
1940s31
1950s8
1960s0
1970s7
1980s0
1990s5
2000s0
2010s0
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Denman is a rare English name that transitioned from a surname to a given name in the early 20th century. First recorded in 1915, it saw its highest usage in 1922, yet never entered the top 1000 names. Its trajectory has remained stable, with an average of fewer than 5 births per year in recent decades, reflecting its enduring obscurity. The name's surname origin, tied to a geographical feature and early medieval settlers, gives it a distinctive, historical feel. Though it has never been associated with any U.S. states or prominent figures, its simplicity and connection to the 1920s era make it a niche choice for parents seeking a truly uncommon name.

Denman originates as an English surname, derived from a place name meaning 'valley of the Dane' (Old English denu 'valley' + Dena 'Dane'), denoting someone from a valley settled by Danes. It first appeared as a given name in the early 20th century, particularly in the 1920s, but has remained rare.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Denny

Sibling names for Denman

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

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

D is for Denman, our favorite little boy.

D is for Denman…”

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

Make Denman's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does the name Denman mean?
Denman is an English surname-turned-given name, likely meaning 'valley of the Dane' from Old English elements.
Is Denman currently popular?
Denman has never ranked in the U.S. top 1000 names. In 2025, it is not tracked, making it exceptionally rare.
Is Denman a boy's name or a girl's name?
Denman is traditionally a boy's name, with nearly all recorded U.S. births assigned to males.