A 1890s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Dovie since 1880
Babies named Dovie per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1917, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Dovie's real moment was 1891.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 458 |
| 1890s | 939 |
| 1900s | 1,260 |
| 1910s | 1,754 |
| 1920s | 1,617 |
| 1930s | 1,038 |
| 1940s | 662 |
| 1950s | 421 |
| 1960s | 298 |
| 1970s | 151 |
| 1980s | 105 |
| 1990s | 83 |
| 2000s | 57 |
| 2010s | 101 |
| 2020s | 132 |
Meaning & origin
Dovie is a rare vintage name that experienced a brief heyday in the 1890s, reaching its peak rank of 1891 that year. After decades of disuse, it began a slow revival starting in 2002, and by 2024 it was given to roughly 1 in 53,576 babies. The name is most historically concentrated in Alabama and Texas, reflecting its Southern roots. Dovie likely originated as a nickname for Dorothy, the classic Greek-derived name meaning 'gift of God,' though it may also be influenced by the peaceful bird name Dove. Its sweet, delicate sound and vintage charm appeal to parents seeking an uncommon yet familiar-sounding name.
Dovie likely emerged in the late 19th century as a pet form of Dorothy, which derives from Greek 'Dorothea' meaning 'gift of God.' Alternatively, it may be a phonetic variant of the English surname Dove or the bird name. The name saw most of its use in the American South during the 1890s, particularly in Alabama and Texas, and has been uncommon since the mid-20th century.
Where Dovie 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: Dove, Vie
Sibling names for Dovie
Names that share Dovie's style, for a brother or sister.
