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

Popularity of Dory by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Dory is more commonly used as a female name, with approximately 90% of people named Dory being female.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 9 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Dory.

The history of the first name Dory

The name Dory has its origins in the Greek language and culture, deriving from the word "doron," which means "gift." This name's earliest recorded use can be traced back to ancient Greece, where it was a feminine name given to children as a symbol of appreciation and gratitude.

In Greek mythology, Dory was the name of one of the Oceanids, the three thousand daughters of the Titans Oceanus and Tethys, who personified the multitude of streams, rivers, and bodies of water on Earth. This mythological connection suggests that the name Dory was associated with the natural world and the power of water.

The name Dory gained popularity in early Christian communities, as it was borne by several notable figures in the early Church. One such figure was Saint Dory, a 4th-century martyr who was executed for her Christian faith during the Diocletian persecution. Her unwavering devotion and sacrifice made her a revered figure, and her name became a symbol of courage and steadfastness.

Throughout history, the name Dory has been carried by several influential individuals. One notable example is Dory Funk Sr., born in 1919, a pioneering American professional wrestler and promoter who helped shape the sport in the mid-20th century. Another significant figure was Dory Previn, born in 1925, an American lyricist, singer-songwriter, and playwright, known for her poetic and introspective works.

In the realm of literature, Dory appears as the name of a character in Herman Melville's classic novel, "Moby Dick," published in 1851. Dory was one of the crew members aboard the ill-fated whaling ship, the Pequod, further solidifying the name's connection to the sea and maritime adventures.

Another notable bearer of the name was Dory Funk Jr., born in 1941, an American professional wrestler, and promoter, following in the footsteps of his father, Dory Funk Sr. He was a highly respected figure in the wrestling world, known for his technical prowess and contributions to the sport.

These examples illustrate the rich history and cultural significance of the name Dory, which has been carried by individuals from various walks of life, from religious figures and martyrs to athletes, artists, and literary characters, all leaving their mark on the world in their unique ways.

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

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

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