Dawson is a moderately popular boys' name in United States, ranking #315 in 2011 with 1,012 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 1999 with 2,802 births ranking #136. Since 1996, the popularity has increased by 419.0%. In 2011, approximately 1 in every 1,876 boys born was named Dawson. STABLE Recent data shows the name is currently stable.
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.