Pronunciation: [dˈa͡ʊsən] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "Dowson" can be explained through the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first sound is "d" /d/, followed by an "ow" diphthong /aʊ/, and then a "s" /s/ and an "o" /ɔ/ in quick succession. Finally, the sound of "n" /n/ concludes the word. The word "Dowson" may have originated from the surname "Dawson," which refers to the "son of David." However, over time, the spelling evolved into "Dowson."
Dowson is a proper noun that primarily refers to a surname of English origin. It is derived from the medieval given name "David," which itself is of Hebrew origin and means "beloved." The surname Dowson originally denoted "son of David," indicating filiation or descent from a person named David.
In addition to being a surname, Dowson can also be used as a personal name, particularly as a given name. Although less common, it functions as a first name for individuals. As a given name, Dowson may potentially have its origins as a variant or derivative of the more common names Dawson or Dawson.
The name Dowson has a relatively modest usage historically and has not become widely popularized. Nevertheless, it is still occasionally encountered as a surname and given name in certain regions with English-speaking populations.
Due to its limited usage, Dowson may also be associated with specific individuals in popular culture or history. For instance, Ernest Dowson was a late 19th-century English poet and writer who was associated with the Decadent movement. His works often explored themes of love, melancholy, and transience, and he is perhaps best known for his poem "I Have Been Faithful to Thee, Cynara!"
