Δωροθέα

Dorothy

girlGreekChristian

Dorothy is a Christian girl name of Greek origin, meaning “Gift of God”.

MeaningGift of God
GenderGirl
OriginGreek
Written asΔωροθέα
PronunciationDOR-uh-thee
TraditionChristian
Used inUnited States, United Kingdom, Poland, Germany

Meaning and origin of Dorothy

Dorothy is the English form of the Greek Dōrothea, from dōron, 'gift', and theos, 'god'. It is the same pair of words as Theodore, reversed. Saint Dorothea of Caesarea, an early martyr, made it known in medieval Europe. Dorothy was among the most popular girls' names in the United States in the 1920s, a time captured by Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz.

Is Dorothy a Christian name?

Dorothy is a Christian name honouring Saint Dorothea, a fourth-century virgin martyr whose legend links her with roses and apples.

How popular is Dorothy?

Very popular in the early twentieth century and gently returning as a vintage choice.

Gifts with the name Dorothy

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Spellings and variants of Dorothy

DorotheaDorotaDorothéeDot

Names similar to Dorothy

More Christian girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Dorothy mean?

Dorothy means 'Gift of God'. It is of Greek origin.

Is Dorothy a Christian name?

Dorothy is a Christian name honouring Saint Dorothea, a fourth-century virgin martyr whose legend links her with roses and apples.

How do you pronounce Dorothy?

Dorothy is pronounced DOR-uh-thee.

Is Dorothy a boy or girl name?

Dorothy is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.