“swarthy; dark skinned” — Associated with the 1960s band Buffalo Springfield
American origin · Unisex name
♂ 98% boys♀ 2% girls
#697US 2023
1.5kBirths / yr
→Stable
34.8kAll-time births
📅 Since 189700.04% of births at peak
How to pronounce Dewey
DOO·ee
/ˈduː.iː/ · stress on DOO · 2 syllables
“swarthy; dark skinned”
Associated with the 1960s band Buffalo Springfield · American origin
What does Dewey mean and where does it come from?
Dewey is originally a masculine name that has transitioned into use as a feminine name, particularly in the United States. The name has Welsh origins, and notable individuals include Dewey Martin, a musician associated with the 1960s band Buffalo Springfield. Variations of this name may appear in di
Cultural significance
Dewey has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of swarthy; dark skinned.
Holding steady — currently #697 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1900–2023#697 · Top 0.51%
1900
1920
1925
1930
1935
1940
1950
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#697
1,503
▲ up 5 · +1% births
2022
#702
1,483
▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021
#707
1,453
▲ up 4094 · +24117% births
1950
#4801
6
▼ down 1800 · -33% births
1940
#3001
9
▼ down 530 · -25% births
1935
#2471
12
▼ down 508 · -33% births
1930
#1963
18
▲ up 180
1925
#2143
18
▲ up 804 · +64% births
1920
#2947
11
▼ down 1563 · +22% births
1900
#1384
9
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Dewey
2023Rank #697
1,503
#2082
↗Rising
1900 - 202310 years
The story of Dewey
Dewey has been a beloved American name for over 127 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1897. A total of 34,778 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1384 in 1900 to #697 in 2023. Dewey is used for both genders: 2% female and 98% male.
Dewey means "swarthy; dark skinned" — 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 Dewey?
Dewey is currently ranked #697 as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Dewey?
Dewey 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 Dewey?
Dewey is a two-syllable name pronounced D UW1 IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Dewey more of a girl or boy name?
Dewey is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Sibling names that pair with Dewey
For a sister
Dewey & Hazel♡
Dewey & Josie♡
Dewey & Georgia♡
Dewey & Walter♡
For a brother
Dewey & John♡
Dewey & Everett♡
Dewey & Josie♡
Dewey & Georgia♡
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