Dexter
Dexter is a boy name of Latin origin meaning “Right-handed, skilful”, pronounced DEK-ster. It ranked #693 in the United States in 2025, given to 393 babies, and peaked at #262 in 1968. Common nicknames: Dex, Dexy.
How popular is Dexter 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 Dexter mean, and where does it come from?
Dexter has two roots that ended in the same place. The Latin dexter means right-handed, and by extension skilful or fortunate — the sense that survives in dexterity. The English surname, though, comes from dehstre, a woman who dyed cloth. The name has been in American use since 1880, peaked in the late 1960s, and then spent eight years attached to a television serial killer without ever quite being ruined by it. Jazz supplies the better association: Dexter Gordon, the tenor saxophonist whose sound defined a decade of bebop.
Variations & Nicknames
Variations
Nicknames
Famous People Named Dexter
- Dexter Gordon — American jazz tenor saxophonist and Academy Award nominee for Round Midnight
- Dexter Fletcher — English actor and film director
- Dexter Jackson — American professional bodybuilder and Mr. Olympia
Similar Names to Dexter
If you like Dexter, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Dexter
Looking for names that pair well with Dexter? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Dexter mean?
Dexter is a boy name of Latin origin meaning "Right-handed, skilful." Dexter has two roots that ended in the same place. The Latin dexter means right-handed, and by extension skilful or fortunate — the sense that survives in dexterity.
How do you pronounce Dexter?
Dexter is pronounced DEK-ster. Common variations include Dextor, Dexta, Dex.
Is Dexter a boy name?
Yes, Dexter is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Dex, Dexy.