Dillard is an American given name of English origin, derived from the Old English word 'hyll', meaning hill, and '-ard', meaning dweller or inhabitant. It was first recorded as a surname in medieval Yorkshire, with variations like Deyllerd and Dylerde, before becoming more common in America among families of English descent during colonial times. Today, Dillard is often associated with American culture and has been used for both boys and girls since the mid-20th century, though it remains relatively rare compared to other names. Some notable figures bearing this name include jazz musician Dillard Warren and writer Dillard Richardson. Despite its uniqueness, Dillard continues to be a timeless choice among parents seeking distinctive names for their children.