Dorcas: a female name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “dorkás (δορκᾰ́ς),” meaning “gazelle, deer, buck".It derives from the Greek word "dorkás".
Dorcas has maintained its appeal as a feminine name in modern times while preserving its Greek roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “dorkás (δορκᾰ́ς),” meaning “gazelle, deer, buck" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.
Quick Facts About Dorcas
Quick facts about Dorcas
Origin
Greek
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Moderately 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 Ancient Greek “dorkás (δορκᾰ́ς),” meaning “gazelle, deer, buck.” Dorcas (also known as Tabitha) was a disciple who lived in Joppa, referenced in the Book of Acts 9:36–42 of the Bible. The name Dorcas is a Greek translation of the Aramaic name Tabitha, meaning “gazelle.” One species of the gazelle is now known as the Dorcas Gazelle. She is commemorated with Lydia of Thyatira and Phoebe on January 27 in the Calendar of Saints of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and on October 25 in the Calendar of Saints of the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod. The Dorcas gazelle (Dorcas Gazelle), also known as the Ariel gazelle, is a small and common gazelle.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
dorkás
How to Pronounce Dorcas
Dorcas is pronounced /ˈdɔːr.kəs/(Greek)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Dor-cas
Say it like: "DOR-CAS"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Dorcas enjoys international appeal, used in 4 different linguistic and cultural contexts including catalan, ancient Greek (Latinized), italian, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.
catalanancient Greek (Latinized)italianportuguese
Frequently Asked Questions About Dorcas
What does the name Dorcas mean?
Dorcas means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “dorkás (δορκᾰ́ς),” meaning “gazelle, deer, buck.” Dorcas (also known as Tabitha) was a disciple who lived in Joppa, referenced in the Book of Acts 9:36–42 of the Bible. The name Dorcas is a Greek translation of the Aramaic name Tabitha, meaning “gazelle.” One species of the gazelle is now known as the Dorcas Gazelle. She is commemorated with Lydia of Thyatira and Phoebe on January 27 in the Calendar of Saints of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and on October 25 in the Calendar of Saints of the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod. The Dorcas gazelle (Dorcas Gazelle), also known as the Ariel gazelle, is a small and common gazelle.". The name comes from dorkás. In its original form, the name derives from dorkás (δορκᾰ́ς). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Dorcas for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “dorkás (δορκᾰ́ς),” meaning “gazelle, deer, buck.” Dorcas (also known as Tabitha) was a disciple who lived in Joppa, referenced in the Book of Acts 9:36–42 of the Bible. The name Dorcas is a Greek translation of the Aramaic name Tabitha, meaning “gazelle.” One species of the gazelle is now known as the Dorcas Gazelle. She is commemorated with Lydia of Thyatira and Phoebe on January 27 in the Calendar of Saints of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and on October 25 in the Calendar of Saints of the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod. The Dorcas gazelle (Dorcas Gazelle), also known as the Ariel gazelle, is a small and common gazelle." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Dorcas's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like BIBLICAL, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Dorcas?
Dorcas is a greek name. The name traces back to dorkás. The original form dorkás (δορκᾰ́ς) shows the name's roots in its native language. From its greek roots, Dorcas spread to become common in catalan, ancient Greek (Latinized), italian, portuguese. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “dorkás (δορκᾰ́ς),” meaning “gazelle, deer, buck.” Dorcas (also known as Tabitha) was a disciple who lived in Joppa, referenced in the Book of Acts 9:36–42 of the Bible. The name Dorcas is a Greek translation of the Aramaic name Tabitha, meaning “gazelle.” One species of the gazelle is now known as the Dorcas Gazelle. She is commemorated with Lydia of Thyatira and Phoebe on January 27 in the Calendar of Saints of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and on October 25 in the Calendar of Saints of the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod. The Dorcas gazelle (Dorcas Gazelle), also known as the Ariel gazelle, is a small and common gazelle." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Dorcas a boy or girl name?
Dorcas 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, Dorcas has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “dorkás (δορκᾰ́ς),” meaning “gazelle, deer, buck.” Dorcas (also known as Tabitha) was a disciple who lived in Joppa, referenced in the Book of Acts 9:36–42 of the Bible. The name Dorcas is a Greek translation of the Aramaic name Tabitha, meaning “gazelle.” One species of the gazelle is now known as the Dorcas Gazelle. She is commemorated with Lydia of Thyatira and Phoebe on January 27 in the Calendar of Saints of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and on October 25 in the Calendar of Saints of the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod. The Dorcas gazelle (Dorcas Gazelle), also known as the Ariel gazelle, is a small and common gazelle." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Dorcas?
Dorcas is pronounced "/ˈdɔːr.kəs/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Dorcas is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in catalan, ancient Greek (Latinized), italian, 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 Dorcas can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root dorkás influences how Dorcas sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Dorcas?
Dorcas is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Dorcas offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Dorcas'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 Ancient Greek “dorkás (δορκᾰ́ς),” meaning “gazelle, deer, buck.” Dorcas (also known as Tabitha) was a disciple who lived in Joppa, referenced in the Book of Acts 9:36–42 of the Bible. The name Dorcas is a Greek translation of the Aramaic name Tabitha, meaning “gazelle.” One species of the gazelle is now known as the Dorcas Gazelle. She is commemorated with Lydia of Thyatira and Phoebe on January 27 in the Calendar of Saints of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and on October 25 in the Calendar of Saints of the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod. The Dorcas gazelle (Dorcas Gazelle), also known as the Ariel gazelle, is a small and common gazelle." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Dorcas holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Dorcas commonly used?
Dorcas spans multiple cultures, including catalan, ancient Greek (Latinized), italian, and 1 other traditions. Though greek in origin, Dorcas found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Dorcas, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “dorkás (δορκᾰ́ς),” meaning “gazelle, deer, buck.” Dorcas (also known as Tabitha) was a disciple who lived in Joppa, referenced in the Book of Acts 9:36–42 of the Bible. The name Dorcas is a Greek translation of the Aramaic name Tabitha, meaning “gazelle.” One species of the gazelle is now known as the Dorcas Gazelle. She is commemorated with Lydia of Thyatira and Phoebe on January 27 in the Calendar of Saints of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and on October 25 in the Calendar of Saints of the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod. The Dorcas gazelle (Dorcas Gazelle), also known as the Ariel gazelle, is a small and common gazelle." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Dorcas into their naming traditions. A child named Dorcas 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, Dorcas is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Dorcas?
Dorcas carries associations with BIBLICAL. 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 Ancient Greek “dorkás (δορκᾰ́ς),” meaning “gazelle, deer, buck.” Dorcas (also known as Tabitha) was a disciple who lived in Joppa, referenced in the Book of Acts 9:36–42 of the Bible. The name Dorcas is a Greek translation of the Aramaic name Tabitha, meaning “gazelle.” One species of the gazelle is now known as the Dorcas Gazelle. She is commemorated with Lydia of Thyatira and Phoebe on January 27 in the Calendar of Saints of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and on October 25 in the Calendar of Saints of the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod. The Dorcas gazelle (Dorcas Gazelle), also known as the Ariel gazelle, is a small and common gazelle." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Dorcas 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 Dorcas sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Dorcas often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In catalan 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.