MallowbyNames

Taavi

TAH-vee · beloved, dear; of uncertain origin, possibly derived from Taavetti or David

Peak popularity
2018
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Declining since 2019

Declining since 2019.

Popularity of Taavi since 2007

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

7132020102020Most births 2015Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
2000s18
2010s133
2020s68

Meaning & origin

Taavi is a Finnish and Estonian name that entered U.S. naming records in 2007. It reached its highest usage in 2018, but has been on a downward trend since 2019. As of 2025, it ranks outside the top 1000 and is considered a rare choice in the United States. The name is closely tied to Nordic naming traditions, particularly in Finland and Estonia, where it functions as a short form of Taavetti, the local version of David. Taavi has not appeared significantly in any state popularity lists, reflecting its niche appeal primarily among families with Scandinavian heritage. Its meaning, 'beloved,' carries a gentle and affectionate connotation, though the name remains uncommon enough to feel distinctive.

Taavi is a Finnish and Estonian given name, often considered a short form or variant of Taavetti, which is the Finnish form of David. The name David is of Hebrew origin (דָּוִד) meaning "beloved." Taavi has been used in Finland and Estonia since the late 19th century, gaining modest popularity as a standalone name. Its use outside the Nordic region is rare.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Taavi, Tavi

Variants: Taavetti, David

Sibling names for Taavi

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

Sisters: Aino, Elina, Inari, Kaisa, Mari, Aili

Brothers: Eero, Ilari, Olli, Sakari, Tuomas

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

T is for Taavi, our favorite little boy.

T is for Taavi…”

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

Make Taavi's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does the name Taavi mean?
Taavi is generally considered to mean 'beloved' or 'dear,' as it is a Finnish and Estonian form of David, which has Hebrew roots meaning 'beloved.'
How popular is the name Taavi?
Taavi is not currently ranked in the top 1000 names in the United States. It first appeared in U.S. records in 2007, with its peak usage in 2018. Since 2019, its popularity has been declining.
Is Taavi a boy's or girl's name?
Taavi is predominantly a boy's name, though it could be used for any gender.