Diane

♀ Girl

Pronounced dy-AN /daɪˈæn/High

Meaning: divine, belonging to the divineHigh

In 30 seconds: Diane is the French form of Diana, the Roman goddess of the hunt and moon, meaning divine or heavenly. A mid-20th century classic now returning to style.

💕 Browse more names

Origin HighLatin, French

Meaningdivine, belonging to the divine

U.S. rank (2024)#2247 ↗ Rising

2024 U.S. births83 girls (0.01% of U.S. girls)

Peak year1955

Total births (all-time)≈ 518,590

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

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

History & Origin

Diane is the French form of the Latin Diana, derived from Diviana, an ancient deity name meaning divine or heavenly. Diana was the Roman goddess of the hunt, moon, and childbirth, a major figure in Roman religion and mythology.

Diane was extremely popular in France and English-speaking countries from the 1940s through the 1970s. Though it dipped in the late 20th century, it retains a chic, Francophile elegance. Notable bearers include Princess Diana (born Diana), who brought global attention to the name family.

Did you know? Diana, the Roman moon and hunting goddess after whom Diane is named, was so beloved in ancient times that her temple at Ephesus — the Temple of Artemis — was counted among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Overall data confidence 92%

Hanks & Hodges, Dictionary of First Names — reference for DianeBehind the Name: Diana — name etymology referenceOxford Classical Dictionary: Diana — reference for Diane

Variations

DianaDiannaDianDyana

Nicknames

Famous Bearers

★Diane Keaton (1946–2025)
American actress who won the Academy Award for Best Actress for Annie Hall (1977).

If you like Diane…

Diana— the classic Latin form of the same name

Claire— French classic of same mid-century vintage

Elaine— French-origin classic popular in the same era

Renee— French feminine classic with similar chic appeal

Cecile— French classic of similar vintage and elegance

Frequently Asked

What does Diane mean?

Diane means divine or heavenly, from the Latin Diana, the Roman goddess of the hunt and moon.

How do you pronounce Diane?

Diane is pronounced dy-AN (/daɪˈæn/), with two syllables.

Is Diane a girl's name?

Yes, Diane is an exclusively feminine name, the French form of the Roman goddess name Diana.

How popular is the name Diane?

Diane was highly popular in the 1940s–1970s in France and English-speaking countries and is now a classic with retro appeal.