“From 'dy', meaning 'great', and 'llanw', meaning 'tide' or 'flow', thus 'great tide'.”
Wales origin · Boy name
♂ 96% boys♀ 4% girls
#34US 2023
7.1kBirths / yr
↑Rising
398.1kAll-time births
📅 Since 1953🏆 31 years in top 1000.8% of births at peak
How to pronounce dylan
DIL·un
/ˈdɪl.ən/ · stress on DIL · 2 syllables
“From 'dy', meaning 'great', and 'llanw', meaning 'tide' or 'flow', thus 'great tide'.”
Wales origin · Boy name
What does dylan mean and where does it come from?
'Dylan' is traditionally a masculine name from Welsh mythology—Dylan Eil Ton was the god of the sea. However, it has gained popularity as a gender-neutral or feminine name, especially in the U.S. in recent decades. Notable namesakes include the American singer-songwriter Bob Dylan. The name invokes
Cultural significance
dylan has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Wales-speaking communities, where it reflects values of from 'dy', meaning 'great', and 'llanw', meaning 'tide' or 'flow', thus 'great tide'..
Rising — up 8 spots — currently #34 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1955–2023#34 · Top 0.03%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#34
7,072
▲ up 8 · +5% births
2022
#42
6,738
▲ up 2
2021
#44
6,762
▼ down 1
2020
#43
6,788
▼ down 16 · -34% births
2015
#27
10,277
▲ up 4 · -2% births
2010
#31
10,512
▼ down 7 · -24% births
2005
#24
13,773
stable · -11% births
2000
#24
15,402
▲ up 10 · +27% births
1995
#34
12,088
▲ up 49 · +174% births
1990
#83
4,412
▲ up 104 · +231% births
1985
#187
1,331
▲ up 78 · +62% births
1980
#265
824
▲ up 101 · +81% births
1975
#366
454
▲ up 92 · +45% births
1970
#458
314
▲ up 636 · +568% births
1965
#1094
47
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for dylan
2000Rank #24
15,402
#380
↗Rising
1955 - 202317 years
The story of dylan
dylan entered American naming records in 1953 and has been in use for over 71 years. Its peak popularity was #19 in 2003. More than 398,062 babies have been named dylan since 1953. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2434 in 1955 to #34 in 2023. dylan is used for both genders: 4% female and 96% male.
dylan means "From 'dy', meaning 'great', and 'llanw', meaning 'tide' or 'flow', thus 'great tide'." — a name rooted in Wales 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 dylan?
dylan is currently ranked #34 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of dylan?
dylan originates from Wales tradition. Wales 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 dylan?
dylan is a two-syllable name pronounced D IH1 L AH0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is dylan more of a girl or boy name?
dylan is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Sibling names that pair with dylan
For a sister
dylan & Talyr♡
dylan & Rhayna♡
dylan & Morgann♡
dylan & Bethan♡
For a brother
dylan & Owen♡
dylan & Evan♡
dylan & Brecon♡
dylan & Emryck♡
Save your shortlist
Get your saved names emailed to you + weekly picks