Find out how popular the first name Damain has been for the last 42 years (from 1975 to 2016) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Damain by gender

Based on the last 42 years of data, Damain is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2016, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Damain.

The history of the first name Damain

The name Damain has its origins in the ancient Celtic language, tracing back to the early medieval period. It is believed to be derived from the Old Irish words "damh" meaning "ox" or "stag," and "an" meaning "little," effectively translating to "little stag" or "little ox."

This name was particularly prevalent among the Gaelic-speaking populations of Ireland and Scotland, where it was often associated with strength, power, and resilience, qualities embodied by these majestic animals. The name's popularity spread throughout the British Isles during the Middle Ages, with various spellings such as Daman, Damian, and Damien emerging over time.

One of the earliest recorded instances of this name dates back to the 6th century, when Saint Damian, a physician and martyr, was venerated in the Christian tradition. He and his brother, Saint Cosmas, were renowned for their skill in medicine and their unwavering devotion to their faith, ultimately sacrificing their lives for their beliefs.

Throughout history, several notable figures have borne the name Damain. In the 8th century, Damain mac Fhailbhe was a prominent Irish poet and scholar, renowned for his contributions to the preservation of ancient Gaelic literature. Later, in the 12th century, Damain de Leinster was a powerful Anglo-Norman lord who played a significant role in the Norman invasion of Ireland.

During the Renaissance, the name gained further prominence with figures like Damain de Goes, a 16th-century Portuguese humanist and explorer, who documented his travels to Ethiopia and the Middle East. In the 18th century, Damain Hirst, an English painter and engraver, gained recognition for his portraits of notable figures of the time.

Another notable bearer of this name was Damain Runyon, an American writer and journalist born in 1880, whose short stories and novels captured the vibrant spirit of New York City in the early 20th century. His works, such as "Guys and Dolls," have left a lasting impact on American literature and popular culture.

These are just a few examples of the rich history and cultural significance associated with the name Damain, a name that has transcended time and geography, reflecting the strength, resilience, and enduring legacy of its bearers.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Damain was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Damain, please contact us.

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