Dawn Girl
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)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 17 | |
TX | 12 | |
IL | 9 | |
FL | 7 | |
GA | 7 | |
VA | 5 | |
OH | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1888 | 5 |
1890 | 7 |
1892 | 7 |
1894 | 5 |
1896 | 7 |
1904 | 5 |
1905 | 5 |
1906 | 6 |
1907 | 6 |
1908 | 8 |
1910 | 8 |
1911 | 8 |
1912 | 17 |
1913 | 13 |
1914 | 30 |
1915 | 58 |
1916 | 57 |
1917 | 54 |
1918 | 49 |
1919 | 63 |
1920 | 84 |
1921 | 94 |
1922 | 104 |
1923 | 131 |
1924 | 141 |
1925 | 130 |
1926 | 175 |
1927 | 194 |
1928 | 188 |
1929 | 223 |
1930 | 221 |
1931 | 291 |
1932 | 319 |
1933 | 307 |
1934 | 288 |
1935 | 398 |
1936 | 512 |
1937 | 457 |
1938 | 471 |
1939 | 468 |
1940 | 427 |
1941 | 530 |
1942 | 675 |
1943 | 765 |
1944 | 654 |
1945 | 745 |
1946 | 1,040 |
1947 | 1,269 |
1948 | 1,241 |
1949 | 1,285 |
1950 | 1,411 |
1951 | 1,533 |
1952 | 1,884 |
1953 | 2,640 |
1954 | 3,356 |
1955 | 4,216 |
1956 | 5,127 |
1957 | 5,159 |
1958 | 5,674 |
1959 | 7,899 |
1960 | 7,812 |
1961 | 9,150 |
1962 | 8,982 |
1963 | 8,414 |
1964 | 12,614 |
1965 | 13,341 |
1966 | 13,603 |
1967 | 13,167 |
1968 | 13,441 |
1969 | 13,768 |
1970 | 15,681 |
1971 | 14,288 |
1972 | 11,340 |
1973 | 9,890 |
1974 | 9,417 |
1975 | 8,744 |
1976 | 7,048 |
1977 | 6,096 |
1978 | 5,217 |
1979 | 4,724 |
1980 | 4,479 |
1981 | 3,839 |
1982 | 3,088 |
1983 | 2,641 |
1984 | 2,105 |
1985 | 1,730 |
1986 | 1,452 |
1987 | 1,154 |
1988 | 1,061 |
1989 | 857 |
1990 | 740 |
1991 | 669 |
1992 | 613 |
1993 | 497 |
1994 | 391 |
1995 | 320 |
1996 | 260 |
1997 | 318 |
1998 | 264 |
1999 | 231 |
2000 | 240 |
2001 | 179 |
2002 | 197 |
2003 | 200 |
2004 | 157 |
2005 | 125 |
2006 | 129 |
2007 | 122 |
2008 | 114 |
2009 | 113 |
2010 | 92 |
2011 | 94 |
2012 | 90 |
2013 | 78 |
2014 | 94 |
2015 | 99 |
2016 | 85 |
2017 | 103 |
2018 | 100 |
2019 | 86 |
2020 | 83 |
2021 | 96 |
2022 | 100 |
2023 | 78 |
2024 | 108 |