Dillinger is a unique and distinctive given name of American origin. It is believed to have originated as an occupational surname given to a tanner or leatherworker in medieval England. The name is derived from the Middle English word "diller," which means "to tan" or "to dress skins."
The name Dillinger was brought to America by early settlers and has since become associated with American culture, particularly through the famous bank robber John Dillinger. Born in 1903, Dillinger rose to notoriety during the Great Depression era for his bold bank heists and jailbreaks. Despite this controversial figure, the name Dillinger continues to be chosen by parents looking for a unique and memorable name for their children.
In terms of meaning, there is no specific symbolism or virtue associated with the name Dillinger beyond its occupational origins. However, some people may associate it with qualities such as daring, audacity, and resilience due to the historical figure it shares a name with.
Today, Dillinger remains an uncommon but intriguing given name choice for boys in English-speaking countries. Its unique sound and American heritage make it a distinctive option for parents seeking something different from traditional baby names.
Statistics for the name Dillinger in the United States:
From 1992 to 2023, there have been a total of 409 babies named Dillinger born in the United States.
During this time period, the number of births has varied from year to year. The lowest recorded year was 1992 with only 6 births, while the peak occurred in 2011 and 2012 with both years having 36 births each.
It's interesting to note that there was a significant increase in the number of births between 2008 and 2011. In just three years, the number of babies named Dillinger more than doubled from 10 births in 2008 to 36 births in both 2011 and 2012.
However, after these peak years, the number of births began to decline again. From 2013 onwards, there has been a consistent decrease in the popularity of this name, with only 5 births recorded in 2023.
These statistics show that while the name Dillinger was relatively popular for a short period between 2008 and 2012, it has since declined in usage. Nevertheless, over a span of three decades, a significant number of parents have chosen this unique name for their children.