Is Dakota a boy or girl name?

Dakota is a unisex name used for both boys and girls; it trended heavily for boys in the 1990s and has seen sustained popularity for girls.

What is the origin of the name Dakota?

The name originates from the Dakota people, a Native American Siouan-speaking tribe of the Great Plains.

Is Dakota a common name?

It became very popular in the United States in the late 20th century and remains a recognizable name, though its peak popularity has leveled off.

Dakota

/duh-KOH-tuh/

Native American (Sioux/Dakota)

Dakota is a Native American (Sioux/Dakota) baby name pronounced /duh-KOH-tuh/. The name translates to mean 'friend' or 'ally' in the Dakhóta language.

Meaning of Dakota

The name translates to mean 'friend' or 'ally' in the Dakhóta language.

It is derived from the autonym of the Dakota people, one of the three main subcultures of the Sioux Nation. The name stems from the word 'dakhóta', which signifies a state of being united or allied. Historically, it was used as a tribal ethnonym before transitioning into a geographic and then a personal name.

Origin: Native American (Sioux/Dakota)
Pronunciation: /duh-KOH-tuh/

Cultural background

While originally a tribal name, it gained widespread popularity as a given name in the United States during the late 20th century, particularly in the 1990s.

Variations & nicknames

Dakotah
Dakoda
Dacota
Kota
Koty
Dako

Famous people named Dakota

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

Dakota Fanning
Acclaimed American actress known for child roles and adult film career.
Film · 2000s–Present
Dakota Johnson
American actress known for the 'Fifty Shades' film series.
Film · 2010s–Present
Dakota Prescott
Professional American football quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys.
Sport · 2016–Present
Dakota Meyer
United States Marine Corps veteran and Medal of Honor recipient.
Military · 2000s–2010s
Dakota Staton
American jazz vocalist acclaimed for her album 'The Late, Late Show'.
Music · 1950s–1970s

Frequently asked about Dakota

Is Dakota a boy or girl name?: Dakota is a unisex name used for both boys and girls; it trended heavily for boys in the 1990s and has seen sustained popularity for girls.
What is the origin of the name Dakota?: The name originates from the Dakota people, a Native American Siouan-speaking tribe of the Great Plains.
Is Dakota a common name?: It became very popular in the United States in the late 20th century and remains a recognizable name, though its peak popularity has leveled off.

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