Doria

Meaning & origin

Doria is a rare feminine name in the United States, with a recorded history dating back to at least 1909. Its popularity peaked in 1971, during the decade of the 1970s, when it saw its highest usage. In recent years, the name has remained stable but uncommon, ranking #6325 in 2025 with an incidence of roughly 1 in 89,293 births. The name has been most frequently given in California, suggesting a possible regional preference or influence. While the etymology is debated, Doria fits a pattern of short, vowel-ending names that were fashionable in the mid-20th century. Its rarity may appeal to parents seeking a distinctive yet familiar-sounding choice.

Doria is a name of uncertain derivation. It may be a variant or elaboration of Dora, which comes from the Greek word 'doron' meaning 'gift', or it could be a feminine form of Dore or Dorian. Alternatively, it might be a habitational name taken from the place Doria in Italy or a feminine variant of the surname Doria. The name saw some use in the United States from the early 1900s, with its highest popularity in the 1970s.