Dillard

“From the dill herb”

American origin · popularized by some notable figures in the early to mid-20th century

♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls

#1757US 2023

443Births / yr

→Stable

3.7kAll-time births

📅 Since 188000.01% of births at peak

How to pronounce Dillard

DIL·AHRD

/ˈdɪl.ˈɑrd/ · stress on DIL · 2 syllables

“From the dill herb”

American origin · Boy name

What does Dillard mean and where does it come from?

Dillard originated as an English surname derived from the Old French 'dillart,' a term describing someone who cared for dill, an herb. It has been used as a first name since the 19th century in the United States and was popularized by some notable figures in the early to mid-20th century.

Cultural significance

Dillard has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of from the dill herb.

Peak popularity

Reached #590 in 1898 — currently #1757 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Dillard?

Dillard works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Dillard Grace

How popular is Dillard right now?

Holding steady — currently #1757 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1880–2023#1757 · Top 1.3%

1945

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2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#1757	443	▲ up 5 · +5% births
2022	#1762	423	▲ up 5 · +8% births
2021	#1767	393	▲ up 10481 · +7760% births
2010	#12248	5	▼ down 3942 · -37% births
2005	#8306	8	▼ down 1302 · +14% births
1995	#7004	7	▼ down 2824 · -46% births
1990	#4180	13	▼ down 740 · +8% births
1980	#3440	12	▼ down 1068 · -33% births
1975	#2372	18	▼ down 571 · -25% births
1970	#1801	24	▲ up 59 · +33% births
1965	#1860	18	▼ down 540 · -50% births
1960	#1320	36	▼ down 203 · -18% births
1955	#1117	44	▲ up 87 · +22% births
1950	#1204	36	▼ down 318 · -29% births
1945	#886	51	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Dillard

Best Year1900Rank #615

Peak Count443

Average Rank#2418

Current Trend↘Falling

Data Range1900 - 202324 years

The story of Dillard

Dillard has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 3,729 total births recorded, Dillard remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #612 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1757 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Dillard in 1898:

John William James George Charles

Dillard by decade

Dillard peaked in the 1890s. See all 1890s names →

Decade	Births
1880s	86
1890s	73
1900s	132
1910s	440
1920s ★	816
1930s	673
1940s	548
1950s	362
1960s	230
1970s	138
1980s	72
1990s	102
2000s	41
2010s	16

💎With 3,729 total births, Dillard is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Dillard?

Common

DilDiIllard

What names sound and feel like Dillard?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Dillard also consider these

Lillard

American · One who resides

Willard

American · Resolute protector

Dilliard

Greek · A Greek name

Hillard

England · from the hill's

Millard

English · English

Villard

France · of the village

Gillard

France · Originally a surname

Dithard

Greek · A Greek name

Common questions about the name Dillard

What does the name Dillard mean?

Dillard means "From the dill 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 Dillard?

Dillard 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 Dillard?

Dillard 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 Dillard?

Dillard is a two-syllable name pronounced D IH1 L AA1 R D. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Dillard a common or rare name?

Dillard is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.