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Dillon
Pronounced DIL-ən /ˈdɪl.ən/High
Meaning: Irish surname from the Norman given name Dillon, possibly from de Leon, 'of the lion'Medium
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.
History & Origin
As a surname, Dillon arrived in Ireland with the Anglo-Normans in the 1180s; scholars usually trace it to a Norman personal name, possibly from de Leon, suggesting lion-like courage, though a Gaelic source meaning 'loyal' is also proposed. As a first name, its sound merges with the unrelated Welsh Dylan, the sea-figure of the Mabinogi.
American parents adopted Dillon for sons in the 1980s and 1990s as a phonetic twin of Dylan, and a smaller number have chosen it for daughters, following Dylan itself, which gained genuine traction for girls. As a girl's name Dillon remains rare and modern-feeling despite its ancient roots.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Dillon mean?
Dillon is an Irish surname of Norman origin, often linked to de Leon, 'of the lion', or a Gaelic word for 'loyal'; it also serves as a spelling of Welsh Dylan, associated with the sea.
How do you pronounce Dillon?
It's said DIL-ən /ˈdɪl.ən/ — two syllables, stress on the first.
Is Dillon a boy or girl name?
Dillon is mostly a boy's name; this page covers its rarer use for girls.
How popular is Dillon?
Dillon is a rare choice for girls in the U.S.