Choosing a baby name is one of the most exciting parts of preparing for a new arrival. For parents looking for names beginning with the letter D, there’s a wide variety of strong, unique, and timeless choices available. From traditional picks to trendy and modern styles, these 66 American baby boy names starting with D are perfect for your little one.
Classic and Timeless D Names
These names have stood the test of time and continue to be popular choices across generations in the U.S.
1. Daniel
A biblical favorite meaning “God is my judge.” Daniel is a classic name that exudes strength and wisdom.
2. David
Meaning “beloved,” David is a well-known biblical name and has been a consistent favorite among American families.
3. Douglas
Of Scottish origin, Douglas means “dark stream.” It’s a name full of charm and historical depth.
4. Donald
Meaning “ruler of the world,” Donald is a traditional name with a strong, commanding tone.
5. Dean
Short and sleek, Dean means “valley.” It brings to mind images of 1950s cool, thanks to James Dean.
6. Dennis
Derived from Dionysius, the Greek god of wine, Dennis is a name filled with energy and tradition.
7. Dwight
Meaning “white or fair,” Dwight is a name that carries a sense of refinement and history.
8. Dale
A nature-inspired name meaning “valley,” Dale has a peaceful and gentle tone.
Popular and Trendy D Names
These names are currently popular in the U.S., making them stylish picks for modern parents.
9. Dylan
Of Welsh origin meaning “son of the sea,” Dylan is a trendy favorite with literary roots (Dylan Thomas).
10. Declan
Meaning “full of goodness,” Declan has Irish origins and has quickly risen in popularity across America.
11. Dawson
Originally a surname meaning “son of David,” Dawson became popular through TV shows and movies.
12. Damien
Derived from the Greek “to tame,” Damien is edgy yet classic, appealing to modern tastes.
13. Dax
A cool, punchy name with French roots. Dax is both modern and strong.
14. Dash
Short for Dashiell, Dash is zippy, stylish, and perfect for energetic little boys.
15. Dallas
A Southern-inspired name meaning “meadow dwelling,” Dallas combines charm with strength.
16. Duke
A name of nobility, Duke is bold and masculine, perfect for parents wanting something powerful.
Unique and Rare D Names
Looking for something distinctive? These names are less common but full of character.
17. Daxton
A modern invented name with a futuristic vibe. Daxton sounds strong and trendy.
18. Draven
Dark and mysterious, Draven has gothic appeal and a cinematic quality.
19. Dayton
Meaning “bright and sunny town,” Dayton is unique and upbeat.
20. Dorian
Literary and philosophical, Dorian is elegant and uncommon.
21. Decker
Meaning “roofer,” Decker is a strong, occupational name with modern appeal.
22. Dariel
A twist on Darrell, Dariel has Spanish roots and a lyrical tone.
23. Dangelo
A romantic-sounding name meaning “angel,” Dangelo is unique and soulful.
24. Deveraux
This French surname-turned-first name means “from Evreux” and is luxurious and rare.
Biblical and Spiritual D Names
For families seeking names with deep spiritual meaning or biblical origins.
25. Demetrius
A biblical name of Greek origin, meaning “follower of Demeter.” It’s regal and memorable.
26. Dan
A short form of Daniel and also a tribe in Israel, Dan means “God is my judge.”
27. Dathan
An Old Testament name with rebellious associations, yet strong and rare.
28. Damarion
A modern spiritual-sounding name often interpreted as “gift of God.”
29. Dion
A name with ancient spiritual and mythological roots tied to Dionysius.
30. Darian
Often used interchangeably with Darius, Darian means “wealthy” and “kingly.”
Short and Simple D Names
If you’re looking for names that are short, strong, and easy to spell, these are ideal choices.
31. Dex
Short for Dexter, Dex is cool, modern, and sharp.
32. Dom
A shortened form of Dominic, Dom feels bold and punchy.
33. Don
Classic and strong, Don is a simple alternative to Donald.
34. Dov
A unique Hebrew name meaning “bear.” It’s short, rare, and powerful.
35. Dan
As mentioned above, Dan is brief but loaded with meaning.
36. Dre
A cool and creative choice, often linked to music mogul Dr. Dre.
37. Dace
A lesser-known name meaning “from the south,” Dace is sleek and uncommon.
38. Dune
Evoking desert imagery and sci-fi vibes, Dune is earthy and futuristic.
Cool and Edgy D Names
For parents looking to push the envelope, these names offer charisma and attitude.
39. Diesel
Bold and industrial, Diesel is a name with power and edge.
40. Drayden
A modern twist on Brayden, Drayden is fresh and original.
41. Dario
Of Italian origin, Dario means “kingly.” It has a suave, international flair.
42. Drexel
A unique name with urban sophistication, Drexel is uncommon and memorable.
43. Dutch
A cowboy-cool name that feels vintage yet trendy.
44. Draco
Inspired by the stars (constellation Draco), it’s powerful and slightly mysterious.
45. Dael
A stylish twist on Dale, Dael is poetic and artistic.
Strong and Masculine D Names
These names radiate strength, resilience, and masculine energy.
46. Damon
Meaning “to tame,” Damon is tough yet stylish.
47. Darrell
A solid, traditional name meaning “open” or “from Airelle.”
48. Darnell
Of Old French origin meaning “hidden nook,” Darnell sounds smooth and strong.
49. Darius
A Persian name meaning “possessing goodness,” Darius is royal and powerful.
50. Denver
Originally a place name, Denver brings to mind nature, mountains, and adventure.
51. Dimitri
A Slavic variation of Demetrius, Dimitri is sophisticated and noble.
52. Dirk
A Germanic name meaning “ruler of the people,” Dirk is rugged and strong.
53. Dwayne
Popularized by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, this name is strong and friendly.
Southern and Western D Names
Charming, rustic, and warm—these names are great for families with Southern roots.
54. Dusty
A relaxed, country-style name often used as a nickname or standalone.
55. Dixon
Meaning “son of Dick,” Dixon has a Western sound and surname charm.
56. Dalton
Evoking Southern elegance, Dalton is classy and timeless.
57. Deacon
A name with spiritual and Southern church vibes. It’s a bold pick.
58. Dodge
A one-syllable name with car-cool and cowboy charm.
59. Drake
Meaning “dragon,” Drake is fiery and confident.
60. Dillon
A variation of Dylan, Dillon is slightly more unique with the same cool tone.
International D Names with American Appeal
These names have global roots but sound right at home in the U.S.
61. Diego
A Spanish name meaning “supplanter,” Diego is popular in many cultures.
62. Dominique
French origin, meaning “of the Lord.” Dominique is elegant and melodic.
63. Dev
A name of Indian origin meaning “god,” Dev is short, spiritual, and universal.
64. Darshan
A Sanskrit name meaning “vision” or “sight,” Darshan is rich in meaning.
65. Dimitrios
A Greek form of Demetrius, Dimitrios sounds exotic and sophisticated.
66. Dilan
A Turkish and Kurdish variation of Dylan, Dilan adds international flair to a familiar sound.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re drawn to classic favorites, trendy new names, or unique gems, the letter D has no shortage of powerful, meaningful, and stylish options. From Daniel to Dilan, from Dallas to Draven, each name on this list has its own charm, heritage, and personality.
Take your time, say them out loud, imagine them on school forms and graduation announcements. Your baby boy’s name is one of the first gifts you’ll give him—and choosing the perfect D name is a wonderful start.
