Doree is a unique and charming feminine given name of American origin. The name is believed to have been coined by the American author and humorist, James Thurber, who used it as the protagonist's name in his short story "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty," published in 1939.
The name Doree does not have a direct translation or known meaning. However, it is often associated with the idea of beauty and grace due to its phonetic resemblance to words like 'dior' (referring to the French fashion house), 'dahlia' (a type of flower), and 'doré' (French for 'gilded'). This association has contributed to its appeal as a name that evokes elegance and sophistication.
Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals named Doree. One example is Doree Seymour, an American actress who appeared in numerous films during the 1930s and 1940s. Another notable figure is Doree Henner, an American artist known for her unique style of painting, often featuring vibrant colors and intricate patterns.
Despite its lack of a clear etymological background, the name Doree has gained popularity over time due to its unique sound and perceived associations with beauty and elegance. It remains a distinctive choice for parents looking for an uncommon yet appealing name for their daughter.
The name Doree has seen a varied history of usage in the United States over the past century. According to records, it was first given to five baby girls born in 1915. The popularity of this name seems to have fluctuated greatly during its early years.
In the following decades, from 1919 to 1936, the number of births with the name Doree ranged between 5 and 6 annually, suggesting that it was relatively uncommon but not entirely forgotten.
However, starting in 1944, there seems to have been a surge in popularity for this name. The annual birth count jumped to 9 that year, followed by a peak of 24 births in 1955. This decade from the mid-1940s to the late 1950s appears to be the golden age for the name Doree.
After this period, its popularity seems to have declined steadily. By the 1960s and 70s, there were only a handful of births with the name each year, ranging between 5 and 20 annually. This trend continued into the late 20th century and beyond, with no more than 8 births recorded per year since 1978.
In total, over the course of these records (from 1915 to 1992), there were a total of 528 baby girls named Doree born in the United States. While it is clear that this name has not been widely popular throughout its history, it still carries some historical significance as a unique and uncommon choice for parents looking for something distinctive for their daughters.