Duff MacMalcolm
King of Scotland from 962 to 967, noted for his brief but impactful reign.
IPA Pronunciation
/dสf/
Say It Like
Syllables
Duff is derived from the Gaelic word 'dubh', meaning 'black' or 'dark'. Historically, it was used in Scotland and Ireland as a surname and later as a given name. It often referred to someone with dark hair or a dark complexion. The name embodies strength and mystery rooted in Celtic culture.
Cultural Significance of Duff
In Celtic tradition, names derived from colors were common to describe physical traits or lineage. 'Duff' reflects this practice, associated with the Gaelic word for 'black'. Historically, it was borne by Scottish kings such as Duff MacMalcolm, lending the name regal and ancient connotations. It remains a symbol of heritage and resilience in Scottish and Irish culture.
Duff Name Popularity in 2025
Today, 'Duff' is an uncommon but charming choice for boys, often appealing to parents seeking a strong, simple, and historic name. It has a quirky, approachable vibe and is sometimes chosen due to pop culture references, such as the actor Duff McKagan or the 'Duff Beer' brand in The Simpsons. Its rarity gives it a unique edge in modern naming trends.
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Popular Nicknames10
Name Energy & Essence
The name Duff carries the essence of โDark or black; derived from Gaelic for 'black'.โ from Gaelic tradition. Names beginning with "D" often embody qualities of determination, discipline, and practicality.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
In Celtic tradition, names derived from colors were common to describe physical traits or lineage. 'Duff' reflects this practice, associated with the Gaelic word for 'black'. Historically, it was borne by Scottish kings such as Duff MacMalcolm, lending the name regal and ancient connotations. It remains a symbol of heritage and resilience in Scottish and Irish culture.
Duff Cooper
British diplomat and politician, influential during WWII and post-war era.
Duff Gibson
Canadian skeleton racer and Olympic gold medalist, pioneering winter athlete.
Duff Hart-Davis
English biographer and journalist known for historical biographies and nature writing.
Duff Goldman
American pastry chef and TV personality, famous for creative cake designs.
Duff McKagan
Bassist for Guns N' Roses, influential in rock music history.
Duff Pattullo
Canadian politician, Premier of British Columbia in the 1930s.
Duff Twysden
English socialite and inspiration for a character in Hemingway's novel The Sun Also Rises.
Duff Cooper
Politician/Diplomat
Duff Goldman
Chef/TV Personality
Duff McKagan
Musician
Duff Hart-Davis
Writer/Biographer
Duff Pattullo
Politician
Duff Twysden
Socialite
Duff Gibson
Athlete
Duff Whelan
Author
The Simpsons ()
The Sun Also Rises ()
Ace of Cakes ()
Californication ()
The Amazing Spider-Man 2 ()
The Hangover ()
Shameless ()
True Blood ()
Duff
๐Spanish
Duff
๐French
Duff
๐German
Duff
๐Italian
ใใ (Dafu)
๐Japanese
่พพๅคซ (Dรก fลซ)
๐Chinese
ุฏุงู (Dฤf)
๐Arabic
Fun Fact About Duff
Duff was the name of an ancient Scottish king, Duff MacMalcolm, who ruled in the 10th century, making it one of the oldest recorded Gaelic names still in use today.
Personality Traits for Duff
Those named Duff are often perceived as confident, adventurous, and charismatic. The name suggests a grounded individual with a mysterious allure and a strong sense of identity. Duffs may be seen as loyal friends, natural leaders, and creative thinkers who embrace their heritage while making their own path.
What does the name Duff mean?
Duff is a Gaelic name meaning โDark or black; derived from Gaelic for 'black'.โ. Duff is derived from the Gaelic word 'dubh', meaning 'black' or 'dark'. Historically, it was used in Scotland and Ireland as a surname and later as a given name. It often referred to someone with dark hair or a dark complexion. The name embodies strength and mystery rooted in Celtic culture.
How do you pronounce Duff?
Duff is pronounced (IPA: /dสf/). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Duff?
Popular nicknames for Duff include: Duffy, Duf, Duffo, Duffster, D-Man, Duffs, D-Dog, Duffie, Duffito, Dufster.
Who are famous people named Duff?
Famous people named Duff include: , , , , .
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Duff is a beautiful Gaelic name meaning โDark or black; derived from Gaelic for 'black'.โ. Duff is derived from the Gaelic word 'dubh', meaning 'black' or 'dark'. Historically, it was used in Scotland and Ireland as a surname and later as a given name. It often referred to someone with dark...
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