Dafna

Girl Name
Origin:greek
Pronunciation:/ˈdɑːf.nə/

Dafna: a female name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Greek “Daphne (Δάφνη),” meaning “laurel". It derives from the Greek word "DáPHNE > Dáfnis".

Dafna is a feminine name that means "This name derives from the Greek “Daphne (Δάφνη),” meaning “laurel". Its Greek origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.

Quick Facts About Dafna

Quick facts about Dafna
OriginGreek
GenderGirl name
PopularityModerately popular

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name derives from the Greek “Daphne (Δάφνη),” meaning “laurel.” 1) Daphne is a minor figure in Greek mythology known as a Naiad, a type of female nymph associated with fountains, wells, springs, streams, brooks, and other freshwater bodies. There are different versions of the myth, but the general narrative is that, because of its beauty, Daphne has attracted the god Apollo’s attention and ardor (Phoebus). 2) In Greek mythology, Daphnis was a Sicilian shepherd who was said to be the inventor of pastoral poetry. According to tradition, he was the son of Hermes and a nymph, despite which Daphnis himself was mortal.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

DáPHNE > Dáfnis

Other Scripts

Hebrew (דפני)

How to Pronounce Dafna

Dafna is pronounced /ˈdɑːf.nə/

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Daf-na
  2. Say it like: "DAF-NA"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

This name has found popularity across croatian, and hebrew speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.

croatianhebrew
Frequently Asked Questions About Dafna
What does the name Dafna mean?
Dafna means "This name derives from the Greek “Daphne (Δάφνη),” meaning “laurel.” 1) Daphne is a minor figure in Greek mythology known as a Naiad, a type of female nymph associated with fountains, wells, springs, streams, brooks, and other freshwater bodies. There are different versions of the myth, but the general narrative is that, because of its beauty, Daphne has attracted the god Apollo’s attention and ardor (Phoebus). 2) In Greek mythology, Daphnis was a Sicilian shepherd who was said to be the inventor of pastoral poetry. According to tradition, he was the son of Hermes and a nymph, despite which Daphnis himself was mortal.". The name comes from DáPHNE > Dáfnis. In its original form, the name derives from Dáphne (Δάφνη) Dáfnis (Δάφνις). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Dafna for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Greek “Daphne (Δάφνη),” meaning “laurel.” 1) Daphne is a minor figure in Greek mythology known as a Naiad, a type of female nymph associated with fountains, wells, springs, streams, brooks, and other freshwater bodies. There are different versions of the myth, but the general narrative is that, because of its beauty, Daphne has attracted the god Apollo’s attention and ardor (Phoebus). 2) In Greek mythology, Daphnis was a Sicilian shepherd who was said to be the inventor of pastoral poetry. According to tradition, he was the son of Hermes and a nymph, despite which Daphnis himself was mortal." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Dafna's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like GREEK MYTHOLOGY (MINOR FIGURES) (NYMPH), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Dafna?
Dafna is a greek name. The name traces back to DáPHNE > Dáfnis. The original form Dáphne (Δάφνη) Dáfnis (Δάφνις) shows the name's roots in its native language. In its native script, Dafna is written as Hebrew (דפני). From its greek roots, Dafna spread to become common in croatian, hebrew. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Greek “Daphne (Δάφνη),” meaning “laurel.” 1) Daphne is a minor figure in Greek mythology known as a Naiad, a type of female nymph associated with fountains, wells, springs, streams, brooks, and other freshwater bodies. There are different versions of the myth, but the general narrative is that, because of its beauty, Daphne has attracted the god Apollo’s attention and ardor (Phoebus). 2) In Greek mythology, Daphnis was a Sicilian shepherd who was said to be the inventor of pastoral poetry. According to tradition, he was the son of Hermes and a nymph, despite which Daphnis himself was mortal." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Dafna a boy or girl name?
Dafna is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In greek tradition, Dafna has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Greek “Daphne (Δάφνη),” meaning “laurel.” 1) Daphne is a minor figure in Greek mythology known as a Naiad, a type of female nymph associated with fountains, wells, springs, streams, brooks, and other freshwater bodies. There are different versions of the myth, but the general narrative is that, because of its beauty, Daphne has attracted the god Apollo’s attention and ardor (Phoebus). 2) In Greek mythology, Daphnis was a Sicilian shepherd who was said to be the inventor of pastoral poetry. According to tradition, he was the son of Hermes and a nymph, despite which Daphnis himself was mortal." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Dafna?
Dafna is pronounced "/ˈdɑːf.nə/". This pronunciation follows gr language patterns. In its original script, the name appears as Hebrew (דפני), which helps explain how native speakers pronounce it. As a single-syllable name, Dafna is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in croatian, hebrew, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Dafna can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root DáPHNE > Dáfnis influences how Dafna sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Dafna?
Dafna is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Dafna offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Dafna's popularity may vary between greek communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Greek “Daphne (Δάφνη),” meaning “laurel.” 1) Daphne is a minor figure in Greek mythology known as a Naiad, a type of female nymph associated with fountains, wells, springs, streams, brooks, and other freshwater bodies. There are different versions of the myth, but the general narrative is that, because of its beauty, Daphne has attracted the god Apollo’s attention and ardor (Phoebus). 2) In Greek mythology, Daphnis was a Sicilian shepherd who was said to be the inventor of pastoral poetry. According to tradition, he was the son of Hermes and a nymph, despite which Daphnis himself was mortal." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Dafna holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Dafna commonly used?
Dafna is common in croatian and hebrew naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Dafna found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Greek “Daphne (Δάφνη),” meaning “laurel.” 1) Daphne is a minor figure in Greek mythology known as a Naiad, a type of female nymph associated with fountains, wells, springs, streams, brooks, and other freshwater bodies. There are different versions of the myth, but the general narrative is that, because of its beauty, Daphne has attracted the god Apollo’s attention and ardor (Phoebus). 2) In Greek mythology, Daphnis was a Sicilian shepherd who was said to be the inventor of pastoral poetry. According to tradition, he was the son of Hermes and a nymph, despite which Daphnis himself was mortal." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Dafna into their naming traditions. A child named Dafna will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Dafna is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Dafna?
Dafna carries associations with GREEK MYTHOLOGY (MINOR FIGURES) (NYMPH). These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Greek “Daphne (Δάφνη),” meaning “laurel.” 1) Daphne is a minor figure in Greek mythology known as a Naiad, a type of female nymph associated with fountains, wells, springs, streams, brooks, and other freshwater bodies. There are different versions of the myth, but the general narrative is that, because of its beauty, Daphne has attracted the god Apollo’s attention and ardor (Phoebus). 2) In Greek mythology, Daphnis was a Sicilian shepherd who was said to be the inventor of pastoral poetry. According to tradition, he was the son of Hermes and a nymph, despite which Daphnis himself was mortal." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Dafna originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Dafna sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Dafna often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In croatian communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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