Meaning: Its source is a Hebrew expression meaning "Beloved."

Variant Forms: Davy and Davies

Popularity: The name Davis ranked 376th in popularity for males of all ages in a sample of 2000-2003 Social Security Administration statistics and 684th in popularity for males of all ages in a sample of the 1990 US Census.

Though this name appears on the 1990 U.S. Census lists, it is used by only a small percentage of the general population.

Narrative: Some believe David originated as a nursery word meaning ''darling.'' Others think it means ''Hero.'' The story of King David, as recounted in Jewish scripture, supports the second theory.

When he was just a shepherd boy, taking supplies to his elder brothers (soldiers in the Hebrew army), David heard the arrogant challenge of the Philistine champion, Goliath. To everyone's astonishment, David killed the giant using a sling as his only weapon.

This is merely the most famous episode in a life filled with adventure, adversity, triumph and loss. The picture of David that emerges from the tales is a study in contradictions -- ruthless soldier and tender poet, faithful friend and dominating monarch, selfish sinner and devoted follower of God.