Dillon Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Dillon come from? What does the surname Dillon mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Dillon and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Dillon Origin: What does the last name Dillon mean?
The surname Dillon is of Irish origin, tracing back to a cadet branch of Viscomte de Leon in Northern Brittany. It arrived in Ireland in the 12th century with Sir Henry de Leon, who married Maud de Courcy, daughter of Sir John de Courcy. The name evolved into "Diolun" in Irish and "Dillon" in English, becoming particularly common in Meath and Westmeath counties where the Dillons owned vast land tracts. The family later held noble titles like Barons Clonbrock and Earls of Roscommon, with strong ties to Irish history and culture.
YourRoots data reveals that the Dillon surname first appeared in Ireland in the early 15th century, later spreading to the United States by the 17th century. It remains common in both countries and has a global presence, with records found in countries like the UK, France, India, Spain, and Nigeria. The Dillon surname reflects a legacy of lineage and land ownership, embodying a rich history that continues to resonate worldwide.
Dillon Last Name History: Where did the last name Dillon come from?
Origin of Dillon Surname: Where does the last name Dillon originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Dillon first made its appearance in records from Ireland in the early 15th century. Please note that this reflects only the data compiled by YourRoots for the exact spelling "Dillon" and doesn't account for other record sources or variations of the surname.
History of the Last Name Dillon: What does the Dillon surname history look like in the early days?
The "Dillon" surname stayed closely associated with Ireland from the 15th through the 16th century. The data from YourRoots shows Dillon family records in the United States starting from the 17th century, indicating an early spread across the Atlantic.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Dillon surname today?
By the 17th century, the frequency of records with the Dillon surname began to grow significantly in the United States. By the 18th century, it had surpassed Ireland, a trend that continued into the 19th and 20th centuries. The "Dillon" surname remains common in both the United States and Ireland, and it can also be found in other countries around the globe.
Explore Dillon last name heritage and Dillon surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Dillon Surame?
Matt Dillon
Matthew Raymond Dillon (born Feb 18, 1964) is an American actor known for his versatile performances in a wide range of films. Dillon gained fame as a teen heartthrob in the 1980s with roles in movies like "The Outsiders" and "Rumble Fish." He later received critical acclaim for his work in films like "Drugstore Cowboy," "Crash," and "There's Something About Mary." With accolades including a Screen Actors Guild Award and nominations for an Academy Award and Golden Globe, Dillon has solidified his place as a respected actor in Hollywood.
Asia Kate Dillon
Asia Kate Dillon (November 15, 1984 - ) is an American actor known for their roles as Brandy Epps in Orange Is the New Black and Taylor Mason in Billions. Dillon is a trailblazer as the first non-binary main character on North American television, earning them critical acclaim and award nominations. They also appeared in the action film John Wick: Chapter 3 and founded MIRROR/FIRE Productions. Dillon uses their platform to advocate for LGBTQ rights and released an EP benefiting the Marsha P. Johnson Institute. Their work challenges gender norms and promotes inclusivity in the entertainment industry.
Melinda Dillon
Melinda Ruth Dillon (October 13, 1939 – January 9, 2023) was an American actress known for her roles in classic films like Close Encounters of the Third Kind and A Christmas Story. She received award nominations for her performances and appeared in a variety of movies, including The Muppet Movie and Captain America. Dillon had a successful career on both stage and screen, showcasing her talent and versatility as an actress.
Hugh Dillon
Hugh Dillon (born May 31, 1963) is a Canadian singer, actor, and television producer known for his roles in popular series like "Flashpoint," "Durham County," and "Degrassi: The Next Generation." He is also the lead vocalist of rock bands Headstones and Hugh Dillon Redemption Choir. With a diverse career in both music and acting, Dillon has garnered a strong following for his dynamic performances on screen and stage, showcasing his talents across various genres from rock to indie music. As a multi-talented artist, Dillon continues to captivate audiences with his compelling presence and versatile skills in the entertainment industry.
Denny Dillon
Denise Dillon (born May 18, 1951) is an American actress and comedian known for her roles in Dream On, Saturday Night Live, and Women in Prison. She was also a Tony-nominated Broadway performer. Dillon has appeared in various TV shows, movies, and stage productions throughout her career. In addition to her acting work, she teaches and performs improv comedy. She is openly gay and married to Barbara Smiley, residing in New York's Hudson Valley.
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