The name Dexter is of Latin origin and means "one who dyes or tanners." It was derived from the occupational surname Dextarius, which originally referred to someone who worked with leather or dyed fabrics. The name Dexter has been used in English-speaking countries for centuries but became particularly popular during the late 20th century.
The earliest recorded instance of Dexter as a given name appears to be in the early 17th century when it was borne by a character in Thomas Middleton's play "A Chaste Maid in Cheapside." However, it wasn't until the mid-20th century that Dexter began to be used more frequently as a first name.
One notable bearer of this name is American actor and musician Dexter Holland, best known for his work with The Offspring. Other famous Dexters include British television presenter Dexter Fletcher and Australian cricketer Dexter Saxton.
Throughout history, the name Dexter has been associated with various professions due to its occupational origin. However, it has also gained popularity simply as a unique and appealing name choice. Today, Dexter continues to be used by parents seeking an unusual yet meaningful name for their child. Despite its original meaning related to leatherworking or dyeing, many people are drawn to the name Dexter for its sound and how it rolls off the tongue rather than its historical significance.
The name Dexter has been a popular choice for parents in the United States over the past century and a half, with a total of 35,819 babies being named Dexter since 1880.
In the early years, from 1880 to 1892, the number of births with the name Dexter varied between 5 and 12 per year. However, starting in 1893, there was a notable increase in popularity, with more than 8 births each year until 1904.
The peak of popularity for the name Dexter occurred in the early to mid-20th century. In 1957, the name reached its highest point, with 487 babies being named Dexter that year alone. This trend continued through the late 1960s and early 1970s, with hundreds of babies being named Dexter each year.
After a decline in popularity throughout most of the 1970s and 1980s, the name Dexter experienced a resurgence in the late 1980s. From 1986 to 2003, more than 200 babies were named Dexter each year. This trend continued into the early 2000s, with over 200 births per year until 2007.
Since then, the popularity of the name Dexter has seen fluctuations but remains consistent. Between 2007 and 2023, the number of babies named Dexter ranged from a low of 329 in 2008 to a high of 842 in 2012, with an average of around 500 births per year.
Overall, the name Dexter has shown enduring popularity among parents in the United States, with many families choosing this distinctive and strong-sounding name for their children. Despite some fluctuations in popularity over time, Dexter remains a well-loved choice for baby boys across the country.