Dawson is a moderately popular boys' name in England & Wales, ranking #478 in 2025 with 81 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2015 with 86 births ranking #470. In 2025, approximately 1 in every 3,357 boys born was named Dawson. RISING Recent data shows the name is currently rising.
Dawson is an English surname-style name meaning "son of Daw", an older pet form of David. It feels current, polished, and well placed among other modern patronymic boys' names.
The name followed the now familiar route from surname to given name. Its modern appeal lies less in its connection to David than in its smooth surname rhythm.