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

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • Start a New Tree
      • Person Preview
      • Membership
      • Family Trees Support
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Voter Lists
      • Birth, Marriage & Death
      • Military
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Directories & Member Lists
      • Public Member Trees
      • Convict, Criminal, Land & Wills
      • Member Search
      • Card Catalogue
      Loading
      • StoryScout
      Loading
      • Buy a DNA Kit
      • Register a Kit
      • 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
      • About Us
      • Ancestry Blog
      • Gift Memberships
      • Site Map
      • © 2006-2026 Ancestry
      • Updated Privacy
      • Updated Terms and Conditions
      • Cookies
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Dorkas

      Origin

      Greek

      Meaning

      Gazelle or Gracious

      Variations

      Dorcas, Dorcass, Todorka
      The name Dorkas, derived from the Greek word dorkas, translates to gazelle or gracious. In various cultures, its meaning is often associated with qualities such as elegance, gracefulness, and agility, much like the animal itself. This connotation lends itself to a positive and appealing image, making Dorkas a name that embodies both beauty and strength.

      Historically, Dorkas has biblical significance, prominently appearing in the New Testament of the Christian Bible. She is described in Acts 9:36-42 as a disciple known for her good deeds and acts of charity, making garments for the needy. Dorkas was well-regarded in her community, and her miraculous revival by the Apostle Peter further solidified her legacy in Christian tradition. The name has appeared in various historical texts and has been preserved through centuries, reflecting its enduring relevance.

      In contemporary times, Dorkas remains a name used across different cultures, though it is less common than some other names. It appeals to those who appreciate its rich historical background and its graceful meaning. Additionally, variations of the name can be found in different languages, sustaining its presence in modern naming practices. Overall, Dorkas retains a sense of timelessness, appealing to individuals who value tradition as well as the qualities the name represents.

      Based on our records...

      Spencer

      This is the most common surname associated with Dorkas.

      John

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

      Mary

      This is the most common name for a child of a Dorkas.
      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
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1832 is when there were the most people born with the first name Dorkas.

      Explore the origins of another name.