Dexter
Meaning of Dexter
The name Dexter is a strong and distinctive choice for a baby boy, with roots in Latin, where it means "right-handed" or "skillful." Pronounced as DEK-ster (/ˈdɑkstər/) in English, the name carries connotations of dexterity and competence. Though not overwhelmingly common, Dexter has consistently appeared in the ranks of U.S. baby names over the years. Its popularity saw a notable rise in the early 21st century, peaking around 2012 when it ranked 361st. The name is often associated with intelligence and creativity, perhaps partly due to its use in popular culture; notable examples include the fictional character Dexter Morgan from the TV series "Dexter," which has contributed to its modern appeal. A common variation of this name is Dex, offering a more casual and contemporary twist. Overall, Dexter is an excellent choice for parents seeking a name that is both classic and current.
Pronunciation
American English
- Pronunced as DEK-ster (/ˈdɑkstər/)
British English
- Pronunced as DEK-stuh (/ˈdɑkstə/)
U.S. Popularity Chart
States Popularity Chart
Notable People Named Dexter
| Samuel Robert Shaw, also known as Dexter Lumis in WWE, is an American professional wrestler who has also performed under the names Sam Shaw and Samuel Shaw in Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA). |
| Dexter Romweber - John Michael Dexter "Dex" Romweber is a renowned American rockabilly/roots rock musician known for his work with Flat Duo Jets and the Dex Romweber Duo, hailing from Chapel Hill, North Carolina. |
| Dexter Price Filkins is an award-winning American journalist renowned for his coverage of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and he currently writes for The New Yorker. |
| William Dexter Coakley is a former NFL linebacker and College Football Hall of Fame inductee known for his successful career with the Dallas Cowboys. |
| Dexter Fletcher is an English film director and actor known for his roles in Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, Hotel Babylon, Band of Brothers, and Bugsy Malone. |
| Dexter Keith Manley is a former NFL defensive end, known for his time with the Washington Redskins, and also played for the Phoenix Cardinals, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and the Ottawa Rough Riders in the CFL. |
| Dexter Mussey was a prominent Republican politician from Michigan who served as Speaker of the House in the Michigan House of Representatives during 1861-62. |
| Dexter Horton was the founder of the first bank in Seattle, establishing the Bank of Dexter Horton in 1870 and revolutionizing financial transactions in the city. |
