Bear
Derived from the Hebrew word for bear, symbolizing strength and protection. It is a traditional Jewish name often associated with the tribe of Issachar through the blessing of Jacob, though the bear specifically became a popular Yiddish-influenced symbolic name in Europe.
Less common today
Dov isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #1,232 in 2022.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
Founder of American Apparel
Israeli rabbi and public figure
Zionist activist and member of the Irgun
