National Dillon Day is celebrated on April 4 every year. It is a day to honor this name and all the people who carry it as their first name or surname. The name Dillon has roots in Irish history dating back to 1185 A.D. and is still used in many Irish counties. This name is usually perceived as an alternative spelling of the Welsh name Dylan. There are variations of the name Dillon, including Dilen, Dilin, Dillan, Dillen, and Dilyn.
History of National Dillon Day
The name Dillon is derived from the Irish term meaning ‘lion-like’ or ‘royal.’ Although it is mainly used as a first name, it is a popular surname as well. The French nobleman, Sir Henry de Leon, arrived in Ireland in the 12th century in the service of the Earl of Morton, who later became King John. The term ‘de’ means ‘from’ in French; the Dillon family takes its name from a town in central France called Lyon. The nobleman’s name literally meant ‘Henry of the Lyon.’ This eventually turned into Dillion and seeped into the Irish naming practices. Sir Henry resided in Meath and Westmeath counties of Ireland, where this name is still prevalent.
Dillon is also said to have Germanic origins, as the word ‘Dillo’ means “the destroyer” and was brought into England in the 11th century by the French Normans. In England, Dillon is a surname of people belonging to the town of Dilwyn in Herefordshire, with the word ‘Dilwyn’ coming from an Old English word ‘diglum’ that means ‘retreat.’ While Dylan is a unisex name, Dillon is used predominantly in its masculine form. It appeared in popular American naming charts as early as the 1880s, but emerged as a formal name only in the 1970s. The variation, Dylan, is preferred more, especially after the rise of the musician Bob Dylan in the 1960s and onward. This name was included in the Top 100 most popular male names in the United States in the early 1990s.
Notable figures who carry this as their first name include American electronic musician and D.J., Dillon Francis; American actor, Dillon Casey; and former American Public Housing Authority chief, Dillon S. Meyer. This name can be a great choice for parents wishing to name their children with a name symbolizing boldness, courage, and loyalty.
National Dillon Day timeline
The nobleman, Sir Henry de Leon, arrives in Ireland.
American government official Myer, leads the War Relocation Authority in June, resettling many Japanese Americans during the Second World War.
Actor Matt Dillon is nominated for Best Supporting Actor for his role in the crime film “Crash.”
American D.J. Francis makes his debut with his “Swashbuckler” E.P.
National Dillon Day FAQs
How popular is the name Dillon?
Since the 19th century, Dillon has been used as a first name in America. It soared in 1992 when 5,082 babies were born with that name, and it was the 73rd most popular baby name in the country. However, it is the 667th most well-liked name as of 2020.
What are the lucky symbols for a Dillon?
Every name has its lucky symbols. The lucky symbols for a Dillon include the garnet as the lucky gem, Wednesday as the lucky day, and the apple and cherry as the lucky fruits.
What do Dillons usually do?
The most likely, or perceived, careers of Dillons include musicians, artists, writers, illustrators, teachers, journalists, or salesmen. Thus, this perception associates Dillon with being bookish and creative. The name Dillon itself is a creative one, so it is no wonder it’s associated with all these jobs.
National Dillon Day Activities
Socialize with a Dillon
Have a beer, dine, or play with a friend named Dillon. If you have a pet by this name, spend some time cuddling and feeding it, or simply take it out for a walk. It’s never a dull moment with a Dillon!
Reach out to a Dillon
Write to all the Dillons you are friendly with and show that you care about them. This is not only a great way to celebrate this name day, but also to stay in touch with your long-lost friends.
Listen to a Dillon
Why not listen to some music by an artist with this name? Brazilian singer Dillon and American D.J. Francis are examples of Dillons that have made great music for all to enjoy. Whether it’s a relaxed evening or an entertaining party, it can always lead to good times.
5 Facts About Dillon And Dillons
A dip in popularity
As of 2020, Dillon is the 667th most popular name in the United States and the 591stt in England.
A significant court case
Dillon v. Gloss is a 1921 U.S. Supreme Court case that upheld the U.S. Congress’ right to fix a definite period when ratifying amendments to the Constitution.
Dillons on the big screen
Famous Dillons in movies include the character of Al Dillon in the 1987 movie “Predator”; and The Town of Dillon, Texas, in the N.B.C. drama “Friday Night Lights.”
A Dillon for all seasons
The lead character was named Dillon in the popular American T.V. series “Gunsmoke,” which was once the longest-running American T.V. series.
Triple nominations
American actor Kevin Dillon’s performances on the H.B.O. series “Entourage” earned him Emmy Award nominations thrice for three consecutive years.
Why We Love National Dillon Day
National Dillon Day honors the name
National Dillon Day honors all Dillons, past and present. If there is a special Dillon in your life who matters a lot to you, this day is a good way to connect with them.
Dillon is a unique name
It is a unique name to have, and in many cases, Dillons are one in a million. It may not be as ubiquitous as its Welsh counterpart, Dylan, but still piques interest Dillon is not about fitting in but about being different and stately.
This name reflects strength
Dillon is a name that reflects the virtues of loyalty, strength, and boldness. This gives this name an imperial appeal, which is a head turner. It is difficult to ignore a Dillon!
National Dillon Day dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2023 | April 4 | Tuesday |
2024 | April 4 | Thursday |
2025 | April 4 | Friday |
2026 | April 4 | Saturday |
2027 | April 4 | Sunday |