Dax
/ˈdæks/
Dax is an English given name derived from the French town of Dax in the Landes region of southwestern France. The town’s name is thought to derive from the Latin Aquae Tarbellicae or a Basque root.
As a given name, Dax was popularized in the United States largely through actor and podcast host Dax Shepard (born 1975), who has kept the name in public conversation through his media career.
Dax peaked at No. 413 in 2019 with 749 births. In 2024 it ranks No. 636 with 438 births, easing back from its recent peak.
What the name Dax means
In pop culture, Dax is also the name of a joined Trill character in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, giving the name science-fiction cachet alongside its celebrity connection.
One syllable—DAKS—hits hard with a voiced stop opening and a crisp fricative-stop close. The x gives it visual punch that matches its percussive sound.
Parents choosing Dax often want a one-syllable name with edge—bolder than Max, less common than Rex, and carrying the celebrity cool of Dax Shepard.
It fits naturally in the one-syllable X-ending name group: Max, Rex, Hex, Knox—all punchy, masculine, and visually striking.
US popularity over time
Numerology and symbolism
Based on Pythagorean numerology — a traditional system linking name letters to numbers. Presented for cultural interest.
Famous people named Dax
Dax - similar names
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