Dilan

Meaning & origin

The name Dilan is a modern American coinage that first appeared on the U.S. Social Security Administration's record in 1980. It has been on a rising trajectory since 1985, with a notable increase in recent decades. In 2025, Dilan ranked 805th in popularity, with approximately 1 in 5,528 newborn boys receiving the name. Its peak year to date is 2024, suggesting growing appeal. Geographically, Dilan is most common in Kentucky, North Carolina, and Maryland. While its etymology is uncertain, it is frequently regarded as a respelling of the Welsh name Dylan, which carries mythological associations. The name's rise fits a pattern of modern, phonetically distinctive names that appeal to parents seeking a familiar yet slightly unconventional choice. Dilan's trajectory shows a steady climb, reflecting broader trends in American naming that favor names ending in 'an' or 'en'.

Dilan is a modern given name that first appeared in U.S. records in 1980. It likely emerged as a respelling or variant of the Welsh name Dylan, which itself means 'son of the sea' in Welsh mythology. Alternatively, it may be an independent coinage influenced by the popularity of similar-sounding names. The name has risen steadily in use since the 1980s, particularly in Kentucky, North Carolina, and Maryland.