Dennis is a name of Latin origin that means "follower of Dionysius." Dionysius was the god of wine and fertility in Greek mythology, and so the name Dennis was often given to children born around harvest time or during celebrations related to wine-making. The name has been used for centuries and was popular among early Christians who named their sons after Saint Denis, a third-century martyr whose feast day is celebrated on October 9th.
The name Dennis became particularly popular in England during the Middle Ages, where it was often spelled Denys. It was also commonly used in France, where it evolved into the French form of the name, Denise. Over time, the name spread to other parts of Europe and beyond, becoming a widely recognized and beloved name around the world.
Today, Dennis is still a popular choice for parents looking for a strong and distinctive name with a rich history. Its Latin origins give it a classic and timeless feel, while its association with Saint Denis lends it an air of solemnity and reverence. Whether you're looking for a name that honors your family's faith or simply want to choose a name with a beautiful meaning and a fascinating history, Dennis is an excellent choice.
The name Dennis has a fascinating history of popularity and usage in the United States. According to data from the Social Security Administration, here's an overview of its annual occurrences:
From 1914 to 1953, the number of babies named Dennis fluctuated quite a bit but tended to hover around 40-60 births per year. The highest peak during this period was in 1947 with 72 births.
Interestingly, from 1954 onwards, there's been a consistent decline in popularity for the name Dennis:
* In the 1950s and 1960s, it maintained an average of about 40-50 births per year.
* By the late 1970s and early 1980s, it dropped to around 20-30 births annually.
* Since the mid-1990s, Dennis has become increasingly uncommon, with fewer than 15 births reported each year.
Despite this decline in popularity, there have been recent spikes in usage:
* In 2008 and 2016, Dennis saw a slight resurgence with 17 births each year.
* More recently, in 2021, the name made a comeback with 8 births recorded.
In total, from 1914 to 2022, there have been 2,686 babies named Dennis born in the United States.