Dominic
/ˈdɑm.ɪ.nɪk/
Dominic is a name of Latin origin, derived from Dominicus, meaning “belonging to the Lord” or “of the Lord.” The root is the Latin dominus, meaning “master” or “lord,” which also underlies the words “domain” and “dominate.” In the early Christian
tradition, the name was particularly associated with children born on Sunday, the Lord’s Day.
The name’s most influential bearer was Saint Dominic (1170-1221), a Spanish-born priest who founded the Order of Preachers, commonly known as the Dominicans.
What the name Dominic means
The order became 1 of the major mendicant orders of the Catholic Church and played a central role in medieval education and theology. Dominic was canonized in 1234, just 13 years after his death.
The name spread widely across Catholic Europe following his canonization, establishing strong presences in Italy, Spain, France, England, and Ireland.
In the United States, Dominic has remained a steady presence in the top 100 since the 1990s, with particular strength in communities of Italian and Hispanic heritage.
Equivalents across languages include Dominique in French (used for both sexes), Domenico in Italian, Domingo in Spanish and Portuguese, and Dominik in German, Polish, and Czech.
The name carries consistent associations with Catholic tradition and intellectual heritage. By 2022, Dominic ranked in the top 75 for boys in the US.
US popularity over time
Numerology and symbolism
Based on Pythagorean numerology — a traditional system linking name letters to numbers. Presented for cultural interest.
Famous people named Dominic
Dominic - similar names
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