Daphne
Daphne is a girl name of Greek origin meaning “Laurel tree”, pronounced DAF-nee. It ranked #178 in the United States in 2025, given to 1,740 babies, and peaked at #178 in 2025. Common nicknames: Daph, Dee, Effie.
How popular is Daphne 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 Daphne mean, and where does it come from?
Daphne comes from the Greek word "daphne," meaning "laurel" or "bay tree." In Greek mythology, Daphne was a beautiful naiad (water nymph) who was pursued by the god Apollo. To escape his advances, she prayed to her father, the river god Peneus, who transformed her into a laurel tree. Apollo, heartbroken, declared the laurel sacred and wore a crown of its leaves, which is why laurel wreaths became symbols of victory and achievement in ancient Greece and Rome. The name was rare in the English-speaking world until the early 20th century but gained popularity through figures like the novelist Daphne du Maurier. More recently, the character Daphne Bridgerton from the Netflix series "Bridgerton" has renewed interest in the name.
How is Daphne used around the world?
Daphne is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 11+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Daphne?
Famous People Named Daphne
- Daphne du Maurier — English author of "Rebecca" and "The Birds"
- Daphne Guinness — Anglo-Irish socialite, artist, and fashion icon
- Daphne Zuniga — American actress known for "Melrose Place"
Similar Names to Daphne
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Sibling Name Ideas for Daphne
Looking for names that pair well with Daphne? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Daphne mean?
Daphne is a girl name of Greek origin meaning "Laurel tree." Daphne comes from the Greek word "daphne," meaning "laurel" or "bay tree." In Greek mythology, Daphne was a beautiful naiad (water nymph) who was pursued by the god Apollo.
How do you pronounce Daphne?
Daphne is pronounced DAF-nee. Common variations include Dafne, Daphney, Dafni.
Is Daphne a girl name?
Yes, Daphne is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Daph, Dee, Effie.