A 1950s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Doreen since 1900
Babies named Doreen per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1900s | 50 |
| 1910s | 286 |
| 1920s | 1,688 |
| 1930s | 2,859 |
| 1940s | 5,456 |
| 1950s | 16,090 |
| 1960s | 14,669 |
| 1970s | 3,351 |
| 1980s | 950 |
| 1990s | 443 |
| 2000s | 244 |
| 2010s | 235 |
| 2020s | 110 |
Meaning & origin
The name Doreen has a dual heritage, blending Greek and Irish roots. While its meaning as 'little gift' from the Greek 'doron' is widely cited, it may also be connected to the Irish Doireann, meaning 'sullen' or 'stormy'. Doreen first appeared in U.S. records in 1900, but it truly flourished in the mid-20th century, peaking at rank 5,099 in 1956. After decades of declining use, the name has experienced a modest revival since 2021, rising in popularity. Its strongest association remains with New York, its top state, reminiscent of the Irish-American communities that helped popularize such names. Though still rare, Doreen carries a vintage charm that appeals to parents seeking a distinctive name with a gentle sound.
Doreen is a 20th-century coinage, likely formed from the Greek word 'doron' meaning 'gift', with the suffix '-een' (a variant of '-ine') used to create feminine names. It may also be an anglicized form of the Irish name Doireann, which possibly means 'sullen' or 'stormy'. The name gained popularity in English-speaking countries, especially in the United States, during the mid-20th century, peaking in the 1950s.
Where Doreen is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Doree, Dory, Reeny
Sibling names for Doreen
Names that share Doreen's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Maureen, Colleen, Eileen, Kathleen, Sharon, Aleta, Deloise, Sharyn, Daneen, Jeanene, Kareen, Lavone, Lavonna, Loreen, Marvella, Nadean, Renay, Willene, Ardene, Bretta, Deette, Deloria, Donice, Doree, Earnesteen, Fayrene, Jannine, Jeneane, Jerene, Juleen, Larayne, Lorraina, Revonda, Sharol, Derenda, Dorraine, Koreen, Lorell, Marvina, Norrine, Rogena, Undrea, Correen, Franceen, Careen, Cerita, Cherylene, Claudeen, Colinda, Deardra, Dorleen, Floreen, Gerene, Jennene, Jilleen, Johnella, Joreen, Leanette, Marshella, Orine, Pauleen, Rudine, Sharine, Suprena, Willeen
Brothers: Kevin, Brian, Sean, Patrick, Michael, Delane, Kerwin, Daman, Donnelle, Lendell, Lenell, Raynell, Doral, Dornell, Garon, Levonne, Orenthal, Dennard, Dorell, Levone, Marrell, Oronde
