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Dawn Girl

Popularity: #842 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

Pronunciationdawn / /dɔːn/

English; Latin

Meaning

English: the first appearance of light; Latin: dawn

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Dawn originates from the Old English word "dæge," which means "day" or "daylight." This term is derived from the Proto-Germanic root "dagaz," which also relates to the concept of day. The transition into the modern English form occurred through various linguistic evolutions, including influences from Old Norse and Middle English, where the term began to take on a more specific meaning related to the first light of day. The name Dawn, as a given name, began to be used in English-speaking cultures in the 20th century, reflecting a broader trend of using nature-inspired names.

Historically, the concept of dawn has been significant in various cultures, often symbolizing new beginnings, hope, and renewal. In literature and art, dawn has frequently been depicted as a time of transformation and awakening. The association of dawn with light and clarity can be traced back to ancient mythologies, where deities representing dawn, such as the Greek Eos and the Roman Aurora, were celebrated in poetry and religious practices. These figures often embodied the transition from night to day, reinforcing the symbolic importance of dawn in human experience.

In Christian tradition, dawn is often linked to themes of resurrection and enlightenment, as seen in hymns and religious texts that celebrate the arrival of light after darkness. The name Dawn may also resonate with the idea of divine illumination, reflecting a spiritual awakening. Although diminutive forms of the name are less common, variations such as "Dawnie" have emerged informally. Overall, the name Dawn encapsulates a rich tapestry of linguistic roots and cultural significance, representing both a literal and metaphorical light in human history.

Trend Summary

The name Dawn experienced peak popularity in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Dawna

International Variants

  • Dawn (English)

Famous people named Dawn

Dawn French is a comedian and actress best known for The Vicar of Dibley, French and Saunders, and The Mighty Boosh.

Dawn Wells is an actress best known for Gilligan's Island, The Brady Bunch, and The New Adventures of Old Christine.

Dawn Richard is a singer and songwriter best known for her work with Danity Kane, Diddy – Dirty Money, and her solo albums.

Dawn O'Porter is a writer and television presenter best known for This Old Thing, My Last Supper, and her novels.

Fictional characters named Dawn

Dawn is a fictional character from the Pokémon anime series. She is a Pokémon Coordinator who travels with Ash and participates in various contests.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Dawn was first seen in the United States in 1888. Dawn has ranked as high as #42 nationally, which occurred in 1970, and has been most popular in New York, Michigan, Illinois, California, and Pennsylvania. In the past 5 years the name Dawn has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Dawn (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 17
27%
TX 12
19%
IL 9
15%
FL 7
11%
GA 7
11%
VA 5
8%
OH 5
8%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18885
18907
18927
18945
18967
19045
19055
19066
19076
19088
19108
19118
191217
191313
191430
191558
191657
191754
191849
191963
192084
192194
1922104
1923131
1924141
1925130
1926175
1927194
1928188
1929223
1930221
1931291
1932319
1933307
1934288
1935398
1936512
1937457
1938471
1939468
1940427
1941530
1942675
1943765
1944654
1945745
19461,040
19471,269
19481,241
19491,285
19501,411
19511,533
19521,884
19532,640
19543,356
19554,216
19565,127
19575,159
19585,674
19597,899
19607,812
19619,150
19628,982
19638,414
196412,614
196513,341
196613,603
196713,167
196813,441
196913,768
197015,681
197114,288
197211,340
19739,890
19749,417
19758,744
19767,048
19776,096
19785,217
19794,724
19804,479
19813,839
19823,088
19832,641
19842,105
19851,730
19861,452
19871,154
19881,061
1989857
1990740
1991669
1992613
1993497
1994391
1995320
1996260
1997318
1998264
1999231
2000240
2001179
2002197
2003200
2004157
2005125
2006129
2007122
2008114
2009113
201092
201194
201290
201378
201494
201599
201685
2017103
2018100
201986
202083
202196
2022100
202378
2024108