“Dark, swarthy.” — Associated with individuals with darker complexions
American origin · Boy name
♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls
#1627US 2023
573Births / yr
→Stable
1.1kAll-time births
📅 Since 188000.01% of births at peak
How to pronounce Dow
DOW
/ˈdaʊ/ · stress on DOW · 1 syllable
“Dark, swarthy.”
Associated with individuals with darker complexions · American origin
What does Dow mean and where does it come from?
Dow is a name with Scottish origins, often associated with individuals with darker complexions. In Scotland, the surname Dow historically indicated people who lived near a hill (from the Old Norse 'dalr'). The name has seen usage in various forms, and although not exceedingly common nowadays, it has
Cultural significance
Dow has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of dark, swarthy..
Holding steady — currently #1627 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#1627 · Top 1.2%
1930
1935
1940
1945
1950
1955
1960
1965
1970
1995
2000
2005
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1627
573
▲ up 5 · +4% births
2022
#1632
553
▲ up 5 · +6% births
2021
#1637
523
▲ up 9862 · +10360% births
2005
#11499
5
▼ down 4065 · -37% births
2000
#7434
8
▲ up 1463 · +60% births
1995
#8897
5
▼ down 5355 · -37% births
1970
#3542
8
▼ down 1051 · -27% births
1965
#2491
11
▼ down 267 · -21% births
1960
#2224
14
▲ up 369 · +40% births
1955
#2593
10
▼ down 134
1950
#2459
10
▼ down 520 · -23% births
1945
#1939
13
▲ up 407 · +30% births
1940
#2346
10
▼ down 300 · -23% births
1935
#2046
13
▼ down 394 · -35% births
1930
#1652
20
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Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Dow
2023Rank #1627
573
#3320
↘Falling
1915 - 202318 years
The story of Dow
Dow has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 1,086 total births recorded, Dow remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #953 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1627 in 2023.
Dow means "Dark, swarthy." — 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 Dow?
Dow is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Dow?
Dow 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 Dow?
Dow is a one-syllable name pronounced D AW1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Dow sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Dow flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Dow ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Sibling names that pair with Dow
For a sister
Dow & Hazel♡
Dow & Josie♡
Dow & Georgia♡
Dow & Walter♡
For a brother
Dow & John♡
Dow & Everett♡
Dow & Josie♡
Dow & Georgia♡
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