Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Dorotheus

      Origin

      Greek

      Meaning

      Gift of God

      Variations

      Dorotheos, Dorothea, Dorothee
      The name Dorotheus is derived from the Greek elements doron, meaning gift, and theos, meaning God. Thus, the name translates to Gift of God. This theophoric name carries a significant religious connotation, often associated with divine favor or blessings. The name reflects a deep cultural appreciation for the idea of gifts bestowed upon individuals by a higher power, which is a theme common in various theological traditions.

      Historically, the name Dorotheus has been borne by several noteworthy figures, particularly within early Christian contexts. One notable example is Saint Dorotheus of Tyre, a Christian martyr who is venerated in the Eastern Orthodox Church. The name appeared in various historical texts and ecclesiastical records, signifying its popularity during antiquity and the Middle Ages. In addition to its religious implications, Dorotheus was also used in classical literature and was associated with various philosophers and scholars, further cementing its presence in historical narratives.

      In contemporary settings, Dorotheus is less common as a first name compared to its variations, such as Dorothy or Dora, which have gained broader acceptance. However, it still retains a niche presence, particularly in certain cultures and among individuals seeking traditional or classical names. The name is occasionally found in literary works and religious contexts, reflecting its enduring legacy. Additionally, it may appeal to parents looking for unique names with rich historical and spiritual significance.

      Based on our records...

      Treat

      Treat

      This is the most common surname associated with Dorotheus.
      Maria

      Maria

      This is the most common name of those married to a Dorotheus.
      Elizabeth

      Elizabeth

      This is the most common name for a child of a Dorotheus.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      calendar.webp
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1630 is when there were the most people born with the first name Dorotheus.

      Explore the origins of another name.