Dorothy means “gift of God,” a classic timeless name.
DOROTHY is a Greek name meaning “gift of God,” symbolizing a cherished, divinely given blessing. This page explores its meaning and symbolism, origin, gender usage, popularity over time, and related names.
The name Dorothy is derived from the Greek name "Dorothea" which means "gift of God." This meaning signifies a divine or precious offering. With its roots in spirituality, the name symbolizes a person cherished and valuable, combining gift and God into a singular meaningful title that has transcended time and culture.
/ˈdɔːr.ə.θi/ - Ντόροθυ
Dorothy is pronounced as 'DAWR-uh-thee', where the first syllable 'DAWR' rhymes with 'sore', the second syllable is a soft 'uh', and the third syllable 'thee' sounds like 'see' with a 'th'.
The name Dorothy originates from the Greek name "Dorothea," which is itself a feminization of the Greek words "doron" (gift) and "theos" (God). Historically significant in Greek culture, this name has maintained popularity through ages, symbolizing a cherished blessing from the divine.
Though primarily recognized as a female name, Dorothy occasionally sees usage as a male name in various cultures. While in countries like the United States and the United Kingdom, it holds a strong female association, some regions have embraced it as a less conventional male name. Famous females like Dorothy Gale emphasize its strong association with women.
Once among the top names in the early 1900s, the name Dorothy thrived primarily in English-speaking regions like the United States, peaking during the 1920s. Though its popularity has waned in recent decades, it remains a classic choice, especially in areas appreciating traditional names, maintaining resonance within historic and artsy circles.
The name Dorothy is warmly embraced in numerous cultures, primarily within United States, United Kingdom, and their colonies. Linguistic variations include "Dorotea" in Spanish and "Dorothee" in French. This cultural flexibility allows the name to retain its elegance across boundaries, continuing to inspire diverse ethnicities.
Usage and gender distribution of the name Dorothy across different countries, based on data from GenderAPI.
Analysis of gender and popularity by country is based on data provided by Gender API.
Means gift of God, compellingly resonant in its Greek roots.
A variant name that also signifies gift of God in Greek tradition.
Shortened version retaining the essence of gift.
Imbued with gift and a similar rhythmic appeal.
A rare choice that means gift, connected to Dorothy.
A diminutive with a nod to gift.
Meaning gift, it offers a lyrical option.
A regional variation, embodying the gift of God.
A sweet, brief version capturing the essence of gift.
A playful, friendly abbreviation maintaining the gift meaning.
Often sensitive to others' needs and emotions.
Expressive, with a penchant for arts and communication.
Known for sharp wit and a keen sense of observation.
Strong ties with family and friends, trustworthy in relationships.
Many pursue careers in teaching and academia due to their nurturing and communicative nature.
Drawn to creative fields such as writing, performing arts, and design.
A propensity for caring drives them toward medical and therapeutic professions.
Iconic in literature and film, Dorothy Gale remains a legendary character.
Frequently featured in songs and poems celebrating love and beauty.
Considered a vintage name, it holds nostalgic beauty.
Answers to the most common questions people ask about the name Dorothy.
The name Dorothy means 'gift of God', signifying a divine or precious offering.
Dorothy originates from the Greek name 'Dorothea', which combines 'doron' (gift) and 'theos' (God).
Dorothy is primarily a female name, although it has been occasionally used as a masculine name in various cultures.
Dorothy was very popular in the early 1900s, especially in English-speaking countries. Though less common today, it remains a classic choice.
Dorothy is embraced in cultures worldwide, predominantly in the United States and the United Kingdom, with variations in Spain and France.
Dorothys are often drawn to education, the arts, and healthcare, reflecting their nurturing, creative, and compassionate nature.
Similar names include Theodora, Dorothea, Dora, and Dolly, all sharing related meanings or phonetics.
In Greek, Dorothy is pronounced as 'DAWR-uh-thee', with the IPA transcription /ˈdɔːr.ə.θi/.
Famous individuals include Dorothy Gale, Dorothy Parker, and Dorothy Dandridge.