David is a masculine name of ancient Hebrew origin, from דָּוִד, commonly transliterated as Dawid, Dāwīḏ, or David. Most etymological references connect it with the Hebrew noun dod, which can mean a beloved person, lover, or uncle. Accordingly, the name is conventionally interpreted as “beloved,” “dear one,” or “beloved friend.” Although “uncle” is a genuine meaning of the related Hebrew word, it is not usually presented as the intended personal-name meaning.

The name owes much of its enduring importance to David, the shepherd, warrior, poet, and king described in the Hebrew Bible. He became a foundational figure in Jewish tradition and also holds major religious significance in Christianity and Islam, where his name appears as Dāwūd. The account of David defeating Goliath gave rise to the familiar image of a courageous underdog overcoming a far stronger opponent. David is also traditionally associated with the Psalms, kingship, and the messianic lineage, giving the name symbolic connections with courage, leadership, faith, artistry, and divine favor.

David spread widely through Christian Europe and was established in Britain by the Middle Ages. It became especially prominent in Wales through Saint David, or Dewi Sant, the patron saint of Wales, whose feast on March 1 celebrates Welsh identity. The name was also borne by medieval Scottish kings. International forms include Dafydd and Dewi in Welsh, Davide in Italian, Dawid in Polish, and Dāwūd or Dawood in Arabic and related naming traditions.