Dawson

“English” — Represents a trend of using surname-origin names as first nam

American origin · Unisex name

♂ 98% boys♀ 2% girls

#149US 2023

2.4kBirths / yr

↑Rising

42.3kAll-time births

📅 Since 199800.01% of births at peak

How to pronounce Dawson

DAW·sun

/ˈdɔ.sən/ · stress on DAW · 2 syllables

“English”

Represents a trend of using surname-origin names as first nam · American origin

What does Dawson mean and where does it come from?

Dawson is traditionally a surname of English origin that has become increasingly popular as a first name, especially for females. Its first recorded use as a first name dates back to the late 20th century. It represents a trend of using surname-origin names as first names. Notable people include Daw

Cultural significance

Dawson has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.

Peak popularity

Reached #2002 in 2018 — currently #149 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Dawson?

Dawson works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Dawson Grace

How popular is Dawson right now?

Rising — up 35 spots — currently #149 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 2000–2023#149 · Top 0.11%

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#149	2,449	▲ up 35 · +20% births
2022	#184	2,045	▲ up 23 · +12% births
2021	#207	1,829	▲ up 2194 · +2440% births
2020	#2401	72	▲ up 275 · +9% births
2015	#2676	66	▲ up 3104 · +187% births
2010	#5780	23	▲ up 475 · +21% births
2005	#6255	19	▼ down 2723 · -49% births
2000	#3532	37	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Dawson

Best Year2023Rank #149

Peak Count2,449

Average Rank#2648

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range2000 - 20238 years

The story of Dawson

Dawson is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1998. A total of 42,268 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3532 in 2000 to #149 in 2023. Dawson is used for both genders: 2% female and 98% male.

Names that peaked alongside Dawson in 2018:

Emma Olivia Ava Isabella Sophia

Dawson by decade

Dawson peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →

Decade	Births
1880s	26
1890s	19
1900s	38
1910s	220
1920s	304
1930s	231
1940s	264
1950s	233
1960s	159
1970s	211
1980s	355
1990s	5,802
2000s ★	17,126
2010s	15,301
2020s	1,979

What are good nicknames for Dawson?

Common

DawDaAwson

What names sound and feel like Dawson?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Dawson also consider these

Dawton

American · A surname turned

Dakson

American · Son of Dake

Darson

American · Son of Dar,

Dalson

American · son of the

Dawon

American · A modern variant

Dason

American · Son of David

Lawson

American · Son of Lawrence,

Dauson

American · son of the

Common questions about the name Dawson

What does the name Dawson mean?

Dawson means "English" — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.

How popular is the name Dawson?

Dawson is currently ranked #149 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Dawson have increased significantly in recent years.

What is the cultural origin of Dawson?

Dawson originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.

How do you pronounce the name Dawson?

Dawson is a two-syllable name pronounced D AO1 S AH0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Dawson trending right now?

Dawson is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.