The nameDexter
Dexter is an English surname for a dyer, also linked to the Latin dexter, "right-handed, skilful".
- Boy's name
- English
Meaning
Dexter comes from the Old English deagestre, "dyer". It is often read through the Latin dexter, "right, skilful".
Origin
English, from an occupational surname.
History
The series Dexter (2006) made the name famous. In England and Wales it reached 63rd place in 2013.
Famous people named Dexter
- Dexter Gordon, jazz saxophonist
- Dexter Fletcher, actor and director
- Dexter Holland, singer of The Offspring
Popularity of the name Dexter
Dexter in the United States
Dexter was most popular in the United States in the 2010s, with 7,152 births over the decade, 20% of all recorded babies named Dexter. Its rise began around 1919, and it peaked in 2012. Half of all babies named Dexter in the United States were born before 1986, so it is mostly a parents' generation name. Over the last five years on record, it has been falling: 436 births a year on average, against 678 in the five years before.
Dexter in the United Kingdom
Dexter was most popular in the United Kingdom in the 2010s, with 8,364 births over the decade, 68% of all recorded babies named Dexter. Its rise began around 2005, and it peaked in 2013. Half of all babies named Dexter in the United Kingdom were born before 2014, so it is mostly a name of today's children and teenagers. Over the last five years on record, it has been falling: 363 births a year on average, against 678 in the five years before.
Sibling names for Dexter
Names from the same generation as Dexter, whose popularity in the United States has followed a similar path.
How many people are named Dexter? See the counter → · What would your name be in 1950? · Name origin quiz
Compare Dexter with another name
Meaning, origin and popularity of Dexter side by side with the name of your choice.
Dexter in our baby name lists
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Dexter mean?
Dexter comes from the Old English deagestre, "dyer". It is often read through the Latin dexter, "right, skilful".
What is the origin of the name Dexter?
English, from an occupational surname.
Is Dexter a girl's or a boy's name?
Dexter is a boy's name.
How popular is the name Dexter?
In 2024, Dexter was the 720th most popular name for baby boys in the United States, with 364 births.
What are good sibling names for Dexter?
Names from the same generation, with a similar popularity in the United States: Adele, Piper, Lexi and Marilyn for a sister, Landry, Bryson, Jace and Vivien for a brother.
Who are famous people named Dexter?
Dexter Gordon, jazz saxophonist; Dexter Fletcher, actor and director; Dexter Holland, singer of The Offspring.