Dillan
2025 SSA
2025 SSA
About Dillan
Dillan as a feminine name represents a gender-crossing trend where traditionally male names are adopted for girls, often with modified spellings. Originally an Irish surname derived from 'Diolún,' meaning 'faithful' or 'loyal,' Dillan is more commonly used for boys (usually spelled Dylan). The feminine usage gained modest traction in the 1990s and 2000s as gender boundaries in naming became more fluid. Parents choosing Dillan for a daughter might appreciate its strong sound combined with its lesser use for girls, creating a distinctive identity. The name carries connotations of faithfulness and determination while maintaining a contemporary feel. Though uncommon for girls, it fits alongside other surname-style names that have crossed gender lines.
Dillan for boys#3871 US
Dillan is a variant spelling of Dylan, a name with Welsh origins meaning "son of the sea" or "born from the ocean." In Welsh mythology, Dylan was a sea god or hero. The name gained significant popularity in English-speaking countries during the late 20th century, partly due to the influence of poet Dylan Thomas and musician Bob Dylan. The Dillan spelling variation emerged as parents sought to create more distinctive versions of popular names while maintaining the original pronunciation. This spelling is less common than Dylan but offers a slight differentiation. The name conveys a sense of nature and flowing movement, making it appealing to parents drawn to names with elemental connections and a modern, approachable sound.
Pronounced DIL-un.
As of October 2026, Dillan ranked #10312 in US births in 2025 SSA, peaked at #4337 in 2003.
Popularity & trends
Data table
| Year | US rank · girls | Births · girls | US rank · boys | Births · boys |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | — | 0 | #1,258 | 142 |
| 2015 | — | 0 | #1,439 | 118 |
| 2016 | — | 0 | #1,589 | 103 |
| 2017 | — | 0 | #2,054 | 68 |
| 2018 | — | 0 | #1,943 | 76 |
| 2019 | — | 0 | #2,595 | 50 |
| 2020 | — | 0 | #2,441 | 53 |
| 2021 | — | 0 | #2,508 | 53 |
| 2022 | — | 0 | #2,357 | 60 |
| 2023 | — | 0 | #2,961 | 42 |
| 2024 | — | 0 | #2,878 | 44 |
| 2025 | — | 0 | #3,871 | 28 |
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