Dillon

The surname Dillon originates from both Ireland and England, with varying etymologies depending on its geographical roots. In Ireland, Dillon is believed to be derived from the Gaelic "Diolun", meaning 'like a lion'. Alternatively, in England, it is thought to be derived from the Old French word "d'Alion", which translates to 'of a lion'.

History

The Dillon surname has a long and distinguished history in both Ireland and England. The name first appeared in historical records in the 12th century, with Sir Henry de Leon, a Norman knight who settled in Ireland. The Dillons went on to become a prominent Anglo-Irish family, holding various titles and lands throughout the centuries.

Notable People

1. Theobald Dillon (1745-1792):

An Irish general who served in the French army during the French Revolution.

2. Matt Dillon (b. 1964):

An English actor known for his roles in films such as "There's Something About Mary" and "Crash".

Distribution

The surname Dillon is most commonly found in counties in Ireland such as Westmeath, Longford, and Tyrone, reflecting its strong Irish roots. However, there are also significant populations of Dillons in England, particularly in areas with historical connections to Ireland.

Variants

Variants of the Dillon surname include Dillan, Dillion, and Dylon. These variations have emerged over time due to factors such as regional accents and dialects.

In conclusion, the surname Dillon has a rich history and is associated with notable individuals from both Ireland and England. Its diverse origins and variations make it a fascinating subject of study for historians and genealogists alike.

There are approximately 9,972 people named Dillon in the UK. That makes it the 927th most common surname in Britain. Around 153 in a million people in Britain are named Dillon.

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Ireland

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Gaelic

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Robert
  • Thomas

Female

  • Anne
  • Catherine
  • Claire
  • Deborah
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Lisa
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Sharon
  • Susan

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