Dima

Meaning & origin

Dima is a rare name in the United States, recorded for girls since 1983 (the earliest year in the data). Its peak came in 2016, but since 2017 its frequency has been falling. As of 2025, it ranks 7,885, making it an uncommon choice: roughly 1 in 123,636 newborn girls receive the name. The name's dual origin gives it breadth: in Slavic tradition it is a familiar short form of Dmitry (from Greek Demetrios, meaning 'follower of Demeter') or Vladimira ('great ruler'), while in Arabic it derives from the root d-m-m for 'more just'. Despite its long history in Russia and the Arab world, Dima has not been heavily adopted in the U.S. and has no recorded top states of concentration, likely because of its rarity. The 2010s saw its highest usage, with a peak in 2016, but the subsequent downward trend may reflect shifting tastes in short, international names. For parents seeking a name that is both cross-cultural and distinctive, Dima offers a succinct and melodic option.

Dima is primarily a Russian diminutive of Dmitry (from Greek Demetrios, 'follower of Demeter') or Vladimira (Slavic 'great ruler'). It also serves as an Arabic name meaning 'more just' (from the root d-m-m). In Russia, it has been used as an independent given name since the 20th century. Its use for girls in the U.S. reflects a modern trend of adopting short, international names.