What does Dill mean and where does it come from?
The name Dill is derived from the herb dill (Anethum graveolens), which has been used for culinary and medicinal purposes since ancient times. The name is relatively uncommon as a given name but may be used as a nickname for other names or in reference to the herb itself. Dill has associations with
Cultural significance
Dill has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a plant of the carrot family, used both as a spice and as a herb.
Peak popularity
Reached #3911 in 1940 — currently #1741 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Dill?
Dill works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Dill Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Dill Rose
Floral · soft ending
Dill Claire
French influence · crisp
Dill Jane
Literary · strong
Dill Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Dill right now?
Holding steady — currently #1741 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1741 | 459 | ▲ up 5 · +5% births |
| 2022 | #1746 | 439 | ▲ up 5 · +7% births |
| 2021 | #1751 | 409 | ▲ up 2160 · +8080% births |
| 1940 | #3911 | 5 | — |
The story of Dill
Dill entered American naming records in 1940 and has been in use for over 84 years. With 5 total births recorded, Dill remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3911 in 1940 to #1741 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Dill in 1940:
💎Dill has only 5 total recorded births since 1940 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Dill?
What names sound and feel like Dill?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Dill also consider these
Common questions about the name Dill
What does the name Dill mean?
Dill means "a plant of the carrot family, used both as a spice and as a herb" — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Dill?
Dill is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Dill?
Dill originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Dill?
Dill is a one-syllable name pronounced D IH1 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Dill sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Dill flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Dill ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.