Dimitrios is a Greek name of ancient origin that has been used for centuries in the Orthodox Christian world. It is derived from the Greek words "dimos," meaning "people," and "trios," which means "three." Together, these two words form the name Dimitrios, which can be translated as "devoted to the people" or "belonging to the people."
The name Dimitrios has a rich history in Greece. It was borne by several prominent figures throughout Greek history, including Saint Demetrios, one of the most venerated saints in the Eastern Orthodox Church. Saint Demetrios was a Christian martyr who died defending his faith during the persecution of Christians under Roman Emperor Galerius Maximus around the year 306 AD. Due to his bravery and devotion, he became the patron saint of Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city, where his relics are said to be kept in the Church of Saint Demetrios.
In addition to its historical significance, the name Dimitrios has also been popular among Greek royalty. Several members of the Greek royal family have borne this name throughout history, including King Demetrios II of Bithynia and several princes named Demetrios from the House of Glücksburg, which ruled Greece from 1863 to 1922.
The name Dimitrios has also been used among other Orthodox Christian communities besides Greeks. It is particularly popular in Russia, Bulgaria, Serbia, and other Slavic countries with significant Orthodox populations. The name's popularity can be attributed not only to its historical significance but also to the fact that it has a strong, masculine sound and conveys a sense of authority and leadership.
In modern times, Dimitrios remains a beloved and respected name among Greeks and other Orthodox Christians. It is often given to boys born into these communities, as parents continue to honor the legacy of Saint Demetrios and the historical significance of this ancient Greek name.
Based on the statistics provided, we can observe the trend of the number of births with the name Dimitrios in the United States from 1949 to 2023.
The data shows that the number of births with the name Dimitrios varied significantly over the decades. The lowest point was reached in 1949 with only 5 births, while the highest peak occurred in 1976 with 75 births.
During the 1970s and early 1980s, there was a notable increase in the number of babies named Dimitrios. This period saw the highest figures, reaching a peak of 75 births in 1976. However, after this peak, the numbers started to decline.
From the mid-1980s onwards, the number of births with the name Dimitrios fluctuated between around 30 and 70 births per year. There were some peaks, such as in 2001 with 54 births and in 2012 with 47 births.
However, in recent years, there has been a significant decrease in the number of babies named Dimitrios. Between 2016 and 2023, the figures dropped to between 20 and 34 births per year.
In total, from 1949 to 2023, there were 2607 births with the name Dimitrios in the United States. This indicates that while it may not be one of the most popular names, Dimitrios has been consistently chosen by parents over several decades.