Dawson
Dawson is a boy name of English origin meaning “Son of David”, pronounced DAW-sun. It ranked #143 in the United States in 2025, given to 2,487 babies, and peaked at #136 in 1999. Common nicknames: Daw.
How popular is Dawson in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Dawson mean, and where does it come from?
Dawson is an English patronymic surname meaning "son of David," reflecting David's long popularity throughout medieval England. It surged into the American mainstream in the late 1990s largely due to the television series "Dawson's Creek," whose lead character brought the name widespread visibility. Dawson has remained a steady top-200 name, admired for its warm, approachable sound.
How is Dawson used around the world?
Dawson is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 2+ international variants.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Dawson?
Famous People Named Dawson
- Dawson Knox — American NFL tight end
- Les Dawson — British comedian
Similar Names to Dawson
If you like Dawson, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Dawson
Looking for names that pair well with Dawson? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Dawson mean?
Dawson is a boy name of English origin meaning "Son of David." Dawson is an English patronymic surname meaning "son of David," reflecting David's long popularity throughout medieval England. It surged into the American mainstream in the late 1990s largely due to the television series "Dawson's Creek," whose lead character brought the name widespread visibility.
How do you pronounce Dawson?
Dawson is pronounced DAW-sun. Common variations include Dawsen, Dawsyn.
Is Dawson a boy name?
Yes, Dawson is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Daw.
