Etymology & Historical Origin of the Baby Name Damon

The name Damon comes from the Greek word “dameo” (δαμαω) meaning ‘to tame’. The Greek mythological tale of Daman and Pythias, symbolizing the loyal bonds of friendship, is said to have taken place 2,400 years ago in ancient Syracuse (modern-day Sicily). According to legend, the very paranoid ruler Dionysius the Elder believed Pythias was plotting against him and so he sentenced the young man to death. Pythias asked for a brief pardon so that he could put his affairs in order prior to his execution. Dionysius refused, but finally agreed to allow Damon, Pythias’ friend, to replace him in the condemned jail cell and risk his own head should Pythias not return as promised. Pythias did return to spare his friend in the nick of time and face his own death (after a dramatic delay that included a pirated ship and a long swim back). Damon had never doubted his friend’s return. Dionysius was so impressed by the trust and friendship between the two men, he released them both. A happy ending. Damon is therefore a model of loyal friendship and trust in Greek mythology. The kind of best friend we all would hope to have. Damon was able ‘to tame’ the tyrannical Dionysius simply through his example of self-sacrifice in the name of friendship. Damon was not a commonly used name within English speaking countries until the 20th century.

All About the Baby Name – Damon

Personality

OF THE BOY NAME DAMON

The Number 2 personality in numerology is all about cooperation and balance. It's the number of diplomats and mediators. They are not leaders, but strive rather for harmony in partnerships. These are the peacemakers. Equality and fairness are important in their dealings, and they are willing to share power and responsibility to achieve a harmonious outcome. This personality is calm and patient, waiting for things to evolve instead of pushing aggressively for an outcome. They are good-natured and easy-going, and care deeply on an emotional and spiritual plane. Twos appreciate beauty and nature and are intent on making the world a better place.

Popularity

OF THE BOY NAME DAMON

Damon first appeared on the U.S. popularity charts in the late 19th century but at such low levels of usage that it could almost be considered unknown. The name finally took hold by the 1920s and would show gradual increased usage. The height of Damon’s popularity was during the 1970s when it “almost” secured a spot on the Top 100 list of most commonly used boy names. The name appears to be losing steam as we’ve crossed the threshold into the 21st century. However, in 2010, the name rebounded by jumping up the charts a little more. This was clearly influenced by the TV series “The Vampire Diaries” and the character Damon Salvatore. We’ll have to wait and see where the name goes from here. We think Damon is an understated, neglected name. However, because it is only used in light moderation, it’s a rather original choice. It’s confident and masculine and a modern alternative to Damien. We like the symbolism of friendship given to us by the Greeks. Damon is just a really simple name without being plain. Interesting etymology. Not trendy or overused. Easy to say and easy to spell. Confident and cool.

Quick Facts

ON DAMON

GENDER:

Boy

ORIGIN:

Greek

NUMBER OF SYLLABLES:

2

RANKING POPULARITY:

379

PRONUNCIATION:

DAY-mən

SIMPLE MEANING:

To tame

Characteristics

OF DAMON

Cooperative

Considerate

Compassionate

Nurturing

Sensitive

Patient

Loving

Kind

Gracious

Balanced

Cultural References to the Baby Name – Damon

Literary Characters

OF THE BABY NAME DAMON

We cannot find any significant literary characters by the name of Damon

Childrens Books

ON THE BABY NAME DAMON

We cannot find any childrens books with the first name Damon


Popular Songs

ON DAMON

We cannot find any popular or well-known songs with the name of Damon


Famous People

NAMED DAMON

Damon Wayans (comedic actor)
Damon Stoudamire (basketball player)
Damon Knight (sci-fi author)
Damon Hill (racecar driver)
Damon Berryhill (baseball player)
Damon Stryker (wrestler)

Children of Famous People

NAMED DAMON

We cannot find any children of famous people with the first name Damon

Historic Figures

WITH THE NAME DAMON

We cannot find any historically significant people with the first name Damon