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

Popularity of Don by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Don is more commonly used as a male name, with approximately 99% of people named Don being male.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 93 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Don.

The history of the first name Don

The given name Don has its origins in the Late Latin word "dominus", which means "lord" or "master". This name was initially used as a title of respect for men of high rank in ancient Rome and later in medieval Europe.

During the Middle Ages, the name Don became a common honorific title used in several European countries, particularly in Spain, Italy, and Portugal. It was often used to address nobles, clergymen, and other individuals of notable standing.

The name Don has roots in the Spanish language, where it served as an honorific title for men of noble or distinguished status. In Spain, it was frequently used in combination with a person's given name, such as "Don Juan" or "Don Quixote".

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Don can be found in the epic poem "El Cantar de Mio Cid" (The Poem of the Cid), written in the 12th century. This work chronicles the life of the Castilian nobleman Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, also known as El Cid (c. 1043-1099), who was often referred to as "Don Rodrigo".

Another notable historical figure who bore the name Don was Don Juan Tenorio, a legendary Spanish nobleman and notorious seducer of women. He was immortalized in literary works, such as the play "El Burlador de Sevilla y Convidado de Piedra" (The Trickster of Seville and the Stone Guest) by Tirso de Molina (1579-1648).

In the realm of literature, one cannot overlook the iconic character Don Quixote, the protagonist of the novel "El Ingenioso Hidalgo Don Quixote de la Mancha" (The Ingenious Nobleman Sir Quixote of La Mancha) by Miguel de Cervantes (1547-1616). This work is considered one of the greatest novels ever written and has had a profound impact on literature worldwide.

Another famous historical figure who bore the name Don was Don Giovanni, the central character of the opera "Don Giovanni" by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791). This opera, based on the legend of Don Juan, explores themes of seduction, betrayal, and moral consequences.

In the world of art, the renowned Spanish painter Diego Velázquez (1599-1660) is known for his masterpiece "Las Meninas" (The Ladies-in-Waiting), which features numerous individuals, including Don Diego del Corral y Arellano, the royal chamberlain depicted in the painting.

While the name Don has its roots in Europe, particularly in Spain and Italy, it has also gained popularity in other parts of the world due to cultural influences and migrations. However, its historical origins and associations with nobility, respect, and literary works remain deeply embedded in its meaning and significance.

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

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

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