Meaning, origin, history
Delon is a name of French origin, meaning "from the poplar tree". It is derived from the French word "délon", which refers to the poplar tree species. The name has been used historically in France as both a given name and a surname.
The use of Delon as a given name dates back to at least the Middle Ages in France. However, it was not particularly common until the 20th century when French actor Alain Delon rose to prominence. Born in 1935, Delon became one of France's most popular actors, appearing in numerous films throughout his career. His fame has likely contributed to the increased popularity of the name Delon among parents in France and beyond.
Today, Delon is still considered a somewhat uncommon name outside of France, but it can be found in various French-speaking countries such as Canada, Belgium, and Switzerland. It may also appear occasionally in other European countries or even further afield due to its international popularity thanks to Alain Delon's acting career.
In terms of popularity rankings, Delon has never broken into the top 100 names for boys in France, but it maintains a steady presence within the lower ranks of French name charts. It is not currently tracked by other countries' naming authorities, suggesting that it remains quite rare outside of France. Nevertheless, its unique origin and association with the poplar tree may appeal to parents looking for an unusual yet meaningful name for their son.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Delon since 1880
Total births
1,350
Total since 1880
Peak year
1993
40 births
in 2023
8
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-34%
↘
vs previous 5 years