Dog Names That Start With D

Norse god who's the son of light plus historic diplomat Dag Hammarskjöld and author Dag Solstad combine to boost this Nordic name's appeal, but this could be difficult in English-speaking countries where the obvious tease will be "daggy Dag."

A super popular nature name in its native Turkey, currently Top 50 for both boys and girls there.

Derby might be considered a word name or a surname-name. In England, it would be pronounced darby, causing confusion with that similar name.

The mythical daughter of Eros and Psyche becomes a modern-sounding word name. Danger: could be seen as X-rated.

Just a few years ago, Dustin, Dylan, and Daryl seemed like radical, edgy names for girls; now even Great-aunt Alberta wouldn't raise an eyebrow.

If you're seeking a French artist name that goes beyond Monet and Manet, Daumier -- known for his revealing caricatures -- makes a rich, sophisticated choice.

Diamond sparkled all through the nineties--reaching as high as Number 150 in 1999. Although its shine has diminished quite a bit, it remains in use.

Rarely heard but pleasing feminissima name for a baby girl.

Tastier than Alicia or Felicia.

Rhythmic and energetic, Drury is of French origin, with the wonderful meaning of "dear one, sweetheart."

With Galway and Ireland in play as names (not to mention Shannon and Kerry), there's no reason this one can't work, too.

This name from the Shona language is a new entrant to the Top 1000 in the US.

Dariel is one of many similar forms and variations of different names—Dara, Dariela, Daria and Darya—that are all unusual and pretty if not quite authentic-feeling.

Durant's meaning signifies staying power, a good quality to impart to your child. Notables with the surname Durant include Pulitzer Prize-winning authors Will and Ariel Durant, most famous for their eleven-volume The Story of Civilization, and William Crappo Durant, co-founder of General Motors and Chevrolet.

One of the more subtle of the names with a royal meaning, Delroy has a vintage flavor and would be a distinctive choice today.

Old-timey surname that's been very rarely used.

Dickson's nickname problem keeps it from having the upside possibility of similar names like Jackson and Harrison. If you're looking for fresh baby names to honor an ancestral Richard or Dick, consider Dixon. Or better, Richardson.

As wooden as its second syllable.

This old short form might be seen as a little dubious by some, though it could make for a fun pet name or an update on Roger.

Perfect example of a surname that would work well as a first.