Dorothy Dunham
Name meaning, origin and global statistics
Dorothy Dunham is a name that combines Greek origins. The first name Dorothy is a feminine given name of Greek origin. From the Greek Dorothea (Δωροθέα), meaning "gift of God." The name was reversed to create Theodore (God's gift). The surname Dunham: Dunham is a toponymic surname of English origin, deriving from several places named Dunham (from Old English: dun- hill, -ham home). Variations in spelling of surname Dunham are found across England, including: in Kent, Denham; in Devonshire and Nottingham, Douham; in Norfolk, Downham; and in Dorsetshire, Dynham. Individuals with the surname Dunham include: Ann Dunham (1942–1995), American anthropologist and pioneer in the field of microfinance Anne Dunham (1948–2025), British Para-equestrian Archie W. Dunham, former president and chief executive officer of Conoco Inc. Cyrus L. Dorothy is one of the most widespread first names worldwide, carried by approximately 1.1 million people globally, with the highest concentration in United States. The name Dorothy reached peak popularity in the 1970s, reflecting the naming trends of that era.
Etymology & Origin
First Name: Dorothy
Meaning: gift of God
Greek
From the Greek Dorothea (Δωροθέα), meaning "gift of God." The name was reversed to create Theodore (God's gift).
Surname: Dunham
English
Dunham is a toponymic surname of English origin, deriving from several places named Dunham (from Old English: dun- hill, -ham home). Variations in spelling of surname Dunham are found across England, including: in Kent, Denham; in Devonshire and Nottingham, Douham; in Norfolk, Downham; and in Dorsetshire, Dynham. Individuals with the surname Dunham include: Ann Dunham (1942–1995), American anthropologist and pioneer in the field of microfinance Anne Dunham (1948–2025), British Para-equestrian Archie W. Dunham, former president and chief executive officer of Conoco Inc. Cyrus L.
Geographic Distribution
The first name Dorothy is distributed across the globe, with the highest concentrations in the following countries:
Popularity Over Time
Popularity of the name Dorothy by decade, based on birth registration data:
Notable People Named Dorothy Dunham
- Dorothy Hodgkin (crystallographer, 1910)
- Dorothy Parker (literary critic, 1893)
- Dorothy L. Sayers (French–English translator, 1893)
People listed above share this name. Listed for informational purposes only. Source: Wikipedia.
Numerology
According to Pythagorean numerology, each letter in a name carries a numerical value. Here are the key numbers for Dorothy Dunham:
Stability and hard work. Represents practicality, reliability and dedication — someone who builds solid foundations.
Wisdom and introspection. A deep, analytical mind drawn to philosophy, spirituality and the search for truth.
Nurturing and responsibility. Associated with care, family values and a strong sense of duty towards loved ones.
Numerology is a cultural tradition for exploring symbolism in names. Results are for entertainment purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the origin of the first name Dorothy?
- The first name Dorothy originates from Greek. From the Greek Dorothea (Δωροθέα), meaning "gift of God." The name was reversed to create Theodore (God's gift).
- When was Dorothy most popular?
- The name Dorothy reached its peak popularity during the 1970s.
- What is the origin of the surname Dunham?
- The surname Dunham originates from English. Dunham is a toponymic surname of English origin, deriving from several places named Dunham (from Old English: dun- hill, -ham home). Variations in spelling of surname Dunham are found across England, including: in Kent, Denham; in Devonshire and Nottingham, Douham; in Norfolk, Downham; and in Dorsetshire, Dynham. Individuals with the surname Dunham include: Ann Dunham (1942–1995), American anthropologist and pioneer in the field of microfinance Anne Dunham (1948–2025), British Para-equestrian Archie W. Dunham, former president and chief executive officer of Conoco Inc. Cyrus L.
- What are the origins of the name Dorothy Dunham?
- The name Dorothy Dunham combines two different traditions: the first name Dorothy has Greek roots, while the surname Dunham originates from English.