Dov: meaning of the Hebrew name

דֹּב

Pronounced DOHV

Meaning of Dov

Dov means bear, a strong and fierce animal. Common in Ashkenazi communities as the Hebrew counterpart of the Yiddish name Ber, it expresses strength and courage.

Dov in Hebrew

Dov is written דב in Hebrew (with vowel points: דֹּב). Hebrew is read from right to left.

  • דDalet
  • בBet

Gematria value: 6 (Dalet 4 + Bet 2)

About the name

  • GenderBoy
  • OriginHebrew
  • Meaningbear
  • PronunciationDOHV
  • Hebrewדב
  • Syllables1

Popularity in Israel

Dov last appeared in Israel's top 150 boys' names in 2023, at #148 (98 babies). Its highest rank in 2014-2024 was #132, in 2021.

150100150201420162018202020222024141145147150149132138148
All years 2014-2024
YearRankBabies
2024--
202314898
2022138115
2021132128
202014999
2019150107
2018147117
2017145114
2016141117
2015--
2014--

Source: Israel Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS), first names given to Jewish newborns, 2014-2024. Ranks cover the 150 most common names per year.

Similar names

More names starting with D

Questions about Dov

What does the name Dov mean?

Dov means bear, a strong and fierce animal. Common in Ashkenazi communities as the Hebrew counterpart of the Yiddish name Ber, it expresses strength and courage.

How do you pronounce Dov?

Dov is pronounced DOHV in modern Israeli Hebrew. The syllable in capital letters is stressed.

How do you write Dov in Hebrew?

Dov is written דב in Hebrew (with vowel points: דֹּב).

How popular is the name Dov in Israel?

Dov last appeared in Israel's top 150 boys' names in 2023, at #148 (98 babies). Its highest rank in 2014-2024 was #132, in 2021. Source: Israel Central Bureau of Statistics.

What is the gematria of Dov?

In gematria, the Hebrew spelling דב adds up to 6 (Dalet 4 + Bet 2).

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This name in Hebrew: דב