Damian

Damian is a boy name of Greek origin meaning “To tame, to subdue”, pronounced DAY-mee-un. It ranked #109 in the United States in 2025, given to 3,213 babies, and peaked at #98 in 2013. Common nicknames: Dame, Dami, Ian.

GenderBoy
OriginGreek
MeaningTo tame, to subdue
PronunciationDAY-mee-un

How popular is Damian in the United States?

#109Rank in 2025
3,213Births in 2025
#98 in 2013Peak Popularity
→ Stable10-Year Trend

Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.

What does Damian mean, and where does it come from?

Damian derives from the Greek name Damianos, which comes from the verb "damazein" meaning "to tame" or "to subdue." The name is closely associated with Saint Damian, one of the twin brothers Saints Cosmas and Damian, who were 3rd-century physicians martyred for their Christian faith. They are the patron saints of medicine and are honored in both the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox traditions. The name has been used throughout the Christian world for centuries but experienced a notable surge in popularity in English-speaking countries during the late 20th century. Despite being associated with the villainous child in the 1976 horror film "The Omen," Damian has thrived as a sophisticated and strong name choice.

How is Damian used around the world?

Damian is used in 4 languages worldwide, with 10+ international variants.

Languages
PolishDutchRomanianBelarusian
Details

TypeMale given name

International Variants
Damion
DamianoItalian
DamijanSlovene
DamienFrench
DamjanIcelandic
DamianBelarusian
DamjánHungarian
DemyanRussian
Dami
DamyanBulgarian

Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.

What are the nicknames for Damian?

DameDamiIan

Famous People Named Damian

  • Damien Hirst — English artist and leading figure of the Young British Artists
  • Damian Lewis — English actor known for "Homeland" and "Billions"
  • Damian Lillard — American NBA basketball player

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Sibling Name Ideas for Damian

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Damian mean?

Damian is a boy name of Greek origin meaning "To tame, to subdue." Damian derives from the Greek name Damianos, which comes from the verb "damazein" meaning "to tame" or "to subdue." The name is closely associated with Saint Damian, one of the twin brothers Saints Cosmas and Damian, who were 3rd-century physicians martyred for their Christian faith.

How do you pronounce Damian?

Damian is pronounced DAY-mee-un. Common variations include Damien, Damion, Damiaan.

Is Damian a boy name?

Yes, Damian is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Dame, Dami, Ian.

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