Doug

What does the baby name Doug mean? Learn about what Doug means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Doug - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Doug: D-O-U-G, is a 4-letter male given name.
Meaning of Doug: Dark stream or dark river, diminutive form of douglas, dark stranger.
Origin of Doug: The name 'Doug' can be traced back to the Scottish and Gaelic languages. It is believed to be a shortened form of the name 'Doug'las, which was derived from the Scottish place name 'Dubhghlas'. 'Dubh' means 'dark' in Gaelic, while 'glas' means 'water' or 'river'. The name 'Doug'las originally referred to a person who lived near a dark river or had a connection to a place with dark water.; American Names; Celtic Names; English Names; Gaelic Names; Pet Names; Scottish Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Doug: Dougal; Dougall; Dougie; Douglas; Doyle; Dubhghall; Dubhglas; Dugaid; Dugal; Dugald; Dugall
Popularity of Doug: The popularity of the name 'Doug' has fluctuated over time. In the mid-20th century, it experienced a notable spike in usage, reaching its peak in the 1950s and 1960s. During this period, 'Doug' was a popular choice for parents looking for a strong and masculine name for their sons. However, its popularity has declined since then, and it is now considered a less common name.; Doug currently has 68 likes, and is in the top 5% of liked boy's names. The name Kolby is slightly more popular than Doug.

Earliest Known Use of Doug

The earliest known use of the name 'Doug' can be found in Scotland in the 17th century. It was commonly used as a nickname for individuals with the full name 'Doug'las. Over time, 'Doug' gained popularity as a standalone name and became more widely used.

Etymology of Doug

The etymology of the name 'Doug' can be traced back to the Scottish and Gaelic languages. As mentioned earlier, it is a shortened form of the name 'Doug'las, which means 'dark water' or 'dark river'. The name reflects the connection between the Scottish people and their natural surroundings, particularly the rivers and bodies of water that were an integral part of their daily lives.

Cultural Significance of Doug

While the name 'Doug' does not have any specific cultural significance, it is widely recognized and used in English-speaking countries. It has become a part of popular culture and is often associated with characters in books, movies, and television shows. The simplicity and familiarity of the name make it relatable to a wide range of audiences.