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Dalton Boy

Popularity: #393 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: DOL-ton //ˈdɔːltən//

Origin: English; Old English

Meaning: valley town; from the town in the valley

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Dalton has its roots in Old English, derived from the elements "dæl," meaning "valley," and "tun," meaning "town" or "settlement." This etymological combination suggests a literal meaning of "valley town." The name likely originated as a surname, denoting individuals who lived in or were associated with a settlement in a valley. It first appeared in written records in England during the medieval period, with the surname Dalton being documented as early as the 12th century.

As surnames began to evolve into given names, Dalton transitioned into a first name in the 19th century, particularly in English-speaking regions. Historically, the name Dalton has been associated with various notable figures and locations.

One significant milestone is the establishment of Dalton, a market town in North Yorkshire, England, which contributed to the name's geographical significance. Additionally, the name has been borne by various individuals throughout history, including members of the British aristocracy and notable figures in literature and politics.

The name's presence in historical texts and records has helped solidify its place in English heritage. Culturally, Dalton carries connotations of strength and stability, reflective of its geographical roots.

The imagery of a valley town evokes a sense of community and resilience, which has resonated through generations. The name has also been linked to various traditions and local histories, particularly in England, where it has been embraced in various forms.

While diminutive forms or variations of the name may exist, such as Dalt, the primary form has maintained its significance over the centuries, embodying a connection to the landscape and history of the regions where it has been used.

Famous people named Dalton

Dalton Trumbo is a screenwriter and novelist best known for Roman Holiday, Spartacus, and Johnny Got His Gun.
Dalton McGuinty is a former U.S. President best known for his leadership in the state of California.

Fictional characters named Dalton

Dalton is a fictional character from the film Road House. He is a professional bouncer hired to clean up a rowdy bar in a small town.

Sibling suggestions

Similar names

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Dalton was first seen in the United States in 1881. Dalton has ranked as high as #153 nationally, which occurred in 1998, and has been most popular in Texas, Florida, North Carolina, Missouri, and Ohio. In the past 5 years the name Dalton has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Dalton (2024)

State Births Share
TX 69
10%
CA 50
8%
NC 43
7%
OH 35
5%
NY 33
5%
GA 29
4%
PA 28
4%
TN 26
4%
UT 25
4%
MI 25
4%
VA 24
4%
FL 23
3%
IN 22
3%
MD 16
2%
SC 16
2%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18815
18846
18858
18896
18905
18925
18938
189413
189511
18967
18977
18987
190016
190213
19039
19048
190511
19068
190713
190816
190915
191022
191123
191250
191361
191466
191593
1916121
1917113
1918106
1919123
1920143
1921147
1922159
1923138
1924140
1925177
1926145
1927161
1928128
1929131
1930143
1931145
1932159
1933143
1934143
1935157
1936150
1937140
1938118
1939122
1940128
1941139
1942126
1943137
1944115
1945104
1946131
1947128
1948125
1949118
195099
1951122
1952119
195397
195492
1955102
195694
195798
195897
195995
196091
196175
196285
196383
1964103
196555
196664
196788
196880
1969108
197090
197194
197273
197370
197462
197548
197656
197776
197852
197971
198074
198188
198294
1983108
1984107
1985129
1986159
1987199
1988215
1989402
19901,572
19912,357
19922,900
19933,393
19944,245
19954,191
19963,980
19974,238
19984,563
19994,541
20004,445
20013,895
20023,283
20032,857
20042,454
20052,256
20061,939
20071,836
20081,736
20091,476
20101,332
20111,267
20121,232
20131,106
20141,118
20151,050
20161,050
2017892
2018799
2019686
2020637
2021565
2022573
2023581
2024729