Dahlia
Dahlia is a girl name of Scandinavian origin meaning “Valley, from Dahl”, pronounced DAL-yuh or DAH-lee-uh. It ranked #215 in the United States in 2025, given to 1,420 babies, and peaked at #215 in 2025. Common nicknames: Dolly, Lia, Dee.
How popular is Dahlia in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Dahlia mean, and where does it come from?
Dahlia takes its name from the dahlia flower, which was itself named in honor of the Swedish botanist Anders Dahl, a student of Carl Linnaeus, in the 18th century. The surname Dahl comes from the Old Norse word "dalr," meaning "valley." The dahlia flower is native to Mexico, where it is the national flower, and was brought to Europe by Spanish explorers in the late 18th century. As a given name, Dahlia has been used since the 19th century and has gained considerable popularity in the 21st century, appreciated for its botanical elegance and exotic sound. The name evokes beauty and botanical refinement, making it a favorite among parents who love nature-inspired names.
How is Dahlia used around the world?
Dahlia is used in 0 languages worldwide, with 2+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Dahlia?
Famous People Named Dahlia
- Dahlia Lithwick — Canadian-American legal journalist and commentator
- Dahlia Ravikovitch — Israeli poet and peace activist
- Dahlia Salem — American actress known for television roles
Similar Names to Dahlia
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Sibling Name Ideas for Dahlia
Looking for names that pair well with Dahlia? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Dahlia mean?
Dahlia is a girl name of Scandinavian origin meaning "Valley, from Dahl." Dahlia takes its name from the dahlia flower, which was itself named in honor of the Swedish botanist Anders Dahl, a student of Carl Linnaeus, in the 18th century. The surname Dahl comes from the Old Norse word "dalr," meaning "valley.
How do you pronounce Dahlia?
Dahlia is pronounced DAL-yuh or DAH-lee-uh. Common variations include Dalia, Daliah, Dahlea.
Is Dahlia a girl name?
Yes, Dahlia is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Dolly, Lia, Dee.