Names That Mean David

Dawson was scarcely heard as a first name before the debut of Dawson's Creek in 1998, at which point it leaped up more than 550 places in one year. The character Dawson Leery, played by James Van Der Beek, was a teen favorite until the show's demise in 2003.

This intriguing surname name belongs to a character in the 2008 novel The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer. Its origins are not entirely clear. It may derive from David, like Dawson or Dawes, or it may derive from French doux, douce "soft, sweet".

A surname style name used more popularly on boys but also given to about 100 baby girls in the US in a recent year. Associated with the American teen drama, Dawson's Creek, this last-name off shoot of David may appeal to those who enjoy Madison, Emerson, and Drew.

Tavi has been catapulted into the spotlight by teenage fashion blogger Tavi Gevinson. This cute name, previously not on anyone's scope, could be a way to honor an ancestral David or a short form of the luscious Octavia or could stand as a perfectly stylish name all on its own.

Davin is one of those hybrid names that is appealing for both genders, though it is more common for boys. Though Davin has a strong and attractive sound, either David or Devin would be preferable. It has been declining in use over the last decade.

There are lots of grandpa Daves and Davids out there, and Dawes can make an original honor name. It's right in step with the current craze for surname names that end in S: Brooks, Wells, Rhodes etc.