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Damon

♂ Boy

Pronounced DAY-mon /ˈdeɪmən/High

Meaning: From Greek Damon, related to the verb damao meaning 'to tame' or 'to subdue'; associated with the legendary Pythagorean figure renowned for loyal friendshipHigh

In 30 seconds: Damon is a sleek, two-syllable Greek name carrying centuries of literary resonance. Known for the ancient tale of Damon and Pythias, it projects quiet strength and loyalty.
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Origin HighGreek
MeaningFrom Greek Damon, related to the verb damao meaning 'to tame' or 'to subdue'; associated with the legendary Pythagorean figure renowned for loyal friendship
U.S. rank (2025)#501 ↘ Falling
2025 U.S. births604 boys (0.03% of U.S. boys)
Peak year1976
Total births (all-time)≈ 68,830

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

peak 197618802025

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Damon originates from ancient Greek, derived from the verb damao ('to tame'). The Pythagorean philosopher Damon of Athens was a music theorist and adviser to Pericles, but it is the story of Damon and Pythias that immortalized the name as a symbol of selfless friendship.

Damon entered English-speaking use in the 19th century, aided by literary and theatrical retellings of the classical legend. It rose steadily in 20th-century America, carried further by pop-culture figures including actor Matt Damon and TV character Damon Salvatore from The Vampire Diaries.

Did you know? The story of Damon and Pythias — where Damon offered his own life as surety for his condemned friend — made the name synonymous with loyal friendship in Western culture for over two millennia.
Overall data confidence 87%
Behind the Name — Damon — etymology and historyU.S. Social Security Administration — popularity data

Variations

DamienDamianDaemon

Nicknames

Day

Famous Bearers

  • ★Matt Damon (1970–present)
    Academy Award-winning American actor and screenwriter.
  • ★Damon Hill (1960–present)
    British Formula One world champion racing driver.

If you like Damon…

Damian— shares the Greek root and similar sound profile
Dorian— another sleek literary Greek-derived boys' name
Roman— two-syllable ancient-world name with cool, modern appeal
Caden— contemporary two-syllable name with the same smooth energy

Frequently Asked

What does the name Damon mean?

Damon comes from Greek, meaning 'to tame' or 'to subdue,' and is forever linked to the ancient story of Damon and Pythias — a symbol of loyal friendship.

How do you pronounce Damon?

It is said DAY-mon — two syllables, with stress on the first.

Is Damon a boy or girl name?

Damon is almost exclusively used as a boys' name.

How popular is Damon?

Damon has been a consistent presence in U.S. name charts for decades, typically ranking in the top 400–600 boys' names.