Dexter

Updated: October 14, 2023 by Stephanie Graham

When you hear the name Dexter, you may initially think of “Dexter's Laboratory.” Others may imagine the newer Netflix show, “Dexter.” This nerdy baby name has a long history, however, dating back to Old England and Latin cultures. As of 2021, Dexter is a top 600 option at rank 533.

Meaning and Origin of the name Dexter:

Dexter is a great name for boys with Latin origins. It means “right-handed,” “skillful,” “one who dyes,” and “dyer.”

Dexter is a multicultural name for boys most of the time. It was originally a surname in England. It represented workers who dyed cloth and textiles. In Latin cultures, “dexter” is a word that refers to someone who is “right-handed” or “skilled.” They were seen as dexterous or someone who has skill. Dexter became a given name option in the past couple of centuries.

Symbolism of the name Dexter:

Dexter translates to “one who dyes” or “dyer” in Old English. It was a surname that represented families with a patriarch who dyed clothing. In Latin, this name comes from the word “dexter.” This term means “right-handed” or “skilled.” Think of the word “dexterity,” which has the same Latin origins.

Nicknames for the name Dexter:

Dexter is a great name for boys. If you're looking for nicknames, check out the list below. The more obvious nickname for Dexter is Dex, which is a cute and strong sounding nickname. You do have a few other options, though.

Dex
Dexie
Dexy
Dextie
Dexty
Decky

Style of the name Dexter:

Traditional

Gender of the name Dexter:

Dexter is a nerdy name for boys.

Pronunciation of the name Dexter:

DEHK-stur

Number of syllables in the name Dexter:

Two

Emotion evoked from the name Dexter:

Dexter is a devious and nerdy baby name. It is unique and youthful.

Alternative spellings for the name Dexter:

Deckster
Dekster
Dexxter

Popularity of the name Dexter:

Dexter was first a top 1,000 baby name in 1901 at rank 739. As of 2021, it is a top 600 baby name at number 533. Dexter ranked highest in 1968 at rank 262.