Dawn is a unisex given name of English origin that means "daybreak" or the beginning of daylight. It comes from the Old English word "dæg," which means day, and the suffix "-en," indicating time or period.
The name Dawn gained popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century, reaching its peak in the 1960s and 1970s when it was commonly given to baby girls. However, it has been used as a boy's name as well, particularly among celebrities such as Dawn Wells, who played Mary Ann on Gilligan's Island, and Dawn Robinson from the musical group En Vogue.
Historically, the name Dawn is not found in mythology or historical records, unlike many other names with English origins. It is considered a modern creation that reflects the changing landscape of naming conventions in recent decades. Despite its lack of historical precedent, Dawn has become an established name in its own right and continues to be chosen by parents today.
In terms of usage, Dawn is most commonly found in English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. It is also used in other parts of the world where English is widely spoken or has cultural influence.
Overall, Dawn is a unique and meaningful name with a clear and straightforward origin story. Its association with daybreak makes it an appealing choice for parents looking for a name that conveys positivity, renewal, and new beginnings.
The name Dawn experienced significant fluctuations over the years, with a notable rise from the early 1950s to peak in the late 1960s and early 1970s, before declining consistently until today. Between 1888 and 1923, there were fewer than 14 births per year on average. However, starting from 1924, this number began to increase significantly, reaching over 500 births annually by 1956. The peak occurred in 1970 with 15,680 births. Since then, the popularity of the name Dawn has steadily declined, with only 77 births recorded in 2023. Overall, a total of 289,442 babies were named Dawn from 1888 to 2023.