Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2025 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Dean

      Origin 
      English

      Meaning 
      From the Valley

      Variations 
      Deana, Deance, Deanna

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Dean, with its English origins, has deep historical roots and a significant presence in modern times. Originating from the Old English word denu, meaning valley, the name Dean serves as a reminder of its early association with topography. It was commonly used to describe someone who resided in or near a valley. As names became more prevalent, Dean evolved into a family name, signifying ancestral ties to valley-dwelling ancestors.

      Throughout history, the name Dean can be found in various contexts, reflecting its continued usage. In medieval England, where names became increasingly necessary for identification, the name Dean was adopted by numerous families. These families often resided in valleys or held positions of authority within the valley communities, further solidifying the significance of the name. Fast forward to modern times, and the name Dean remains widely utilized across English-speaking countries. Its simplicity and association with nature have attracted many parents looking for a timeless and meaningful name for their children. Furthermore, the name Dean continues to evoke a sense of calm and tranquillity, making it a popular choice for fictional characters in literature and film, contributing to its enduring popularity.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Dean.
      Smith

      is the most common surname for Dean.

      Mary

      is the most common spouse name for Dean.

      Dean

      is the most common child name for Dean.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1928 is when there were the most people born with the first name Dean.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.