Find out how popular the first name Dian has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Dian by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Dian is more commonly used as a female name, with approximately 68% of people named Dian being female.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 11 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Dian.

It's also interesting to see that despite Dian being historically a mostly female name, the most recent data from 2023 shows a shift in the trend, with more male babies being named Dian.

The history of the first name Dian

The name Dian has its origins in the Greek language, deriving from the word "Dios," which translates to "divine" or "heavenly." This connection to celestial and spiritual realms lends a sense of reverence and significance to the name.

In ancient Greek mythology, Dian was a epithet used to refer to the goddess Artemis, the huntress and protector of women and childbirth. This association with a powerful deity further contributes to the name's symbolic weight and historical significance.

The earliest recorded use of the name Dian can be traced back to the 5th century BCE, when it appeared in various Greek texts and inscriptions. One notable example is the ancient Greek playwright Euripides, who included characters with the name Dian in his tragedies.

Throughout history, several notable figures have borne the name Dian. One prominent example is Dian Fossey (1932-1985), the American primatologist and conservationist who dedicated her life to studying and protecting mountain gorillas in Rwanda. Her work was instrumental in raising awareness about the plight of these magnificent creatures and their habitat.

Another influential figure was Dian Wellestone (1936-2022), a British actress and author known for her performances in classical theater productions and her work as a voice artist. She was awarded an OBE (Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) in recognition of her contributions to the arts.

In the realm of literature, Dian Hanson (born 1947) is a renowned American editor and writer who has played a significant role in documenting and preserving various forms of erotic art and literature. Her work has been instrumental in challenging societal perceptions and promoting artistic expression.

Dian Parkinson (1944-2005) was a British diplomat and politician who served as a Member of Parliament for several years. She was known for her advocacy of human rights and her efforts to promote international cooperation and conflict resolution.

Lastly, Dian Bremner (born 1949) is a Canadian chef and cookbook author who has made significant contributions to the culinary world. Her recipes and cooking techniques have been widely celebrated and have influenced countless aspiring chefs and home cooks.

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 Dian was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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