Surname Dillow - Meaning and Origin

Dillow: What does the surname Dillow mean?

The surname Dillow is considered to be of Anglo-Saxon origin, deriving from a personal nickname or description. It is believed to be a derivative of the Old English pre-7th Century term "dyle", which is a type of aquatic bird, a variant of "delf", which referred to a miner or quarryman, or even possibly from "dol", meaning "dull" or "stupid". Over the years, its spelling and pronunciation have changed numerous times, resulting in various forms including Dyll, Dull, Dill, Dillow, Delle, Doul, Doll, and others. It's always essential to keep in mind that surnames' interpretations can be speculative, as their origins are often ancient and unclear. Like many surnames, the meaning of the last name Dillow would likely be related to an ancestor's occupation, characteristic, or place of residing.

Dillow: Where does the name Dillow come from?

The surname Dillow is believed to have originated from England, with its roots possibly connected to a geographical name. There is speculation that it could be derived from the Old English words "dic" (ditch or dyke) and "halh" (nook or corner), implying a location near a ditch or corner. Alternatively, it could be linked to the Old Norse "dill" (dill, an aromatic herb) and "lo" (meadow), signifying a meadow where dill grows.

Today, the Dillow surname is most prevalent in the United States, specifically in West Virginia, where it is 61 times more common than in the rest of the country. Other states with relatively high concentrations of Dillows include Ohio, Kentucky, Illinois, and Indiana. The name is also found, albeit less frequently, in Canada, England, and Australia. Despite its geographical spread, Dillow is still considered quite rare on a global scale.

Variations of the surname Dillow

The surname Dillow is of English origin but it may have different variants and spellings. Some potential variants of the name could be Dill, Dillon, Dillan, Dyllan, Dyllon, Dillowe, Dilloe, Dilow, or Dyllow.

The name Dillow may also be found in the form of a middle name or a first name in some instances. As a surname, it might be derived from a location, occupation, or a personal characteristic. If we take Dillon for instance, it has both Irish and French roots. In Ireland, it is an anglicised form of Gaelic name Ó Duilleáin meaning "descendant of Duilleán", a personal name derived from 'dille' meaning 'flood'. From French origin, it is a habitational name from places in Côte-d'Or and Nord named with a Germanic personal name Dillo.

It's also worth noting that the frequency of spelling might change due to emigration, immigration, and Anglicization of names. Thus, any of these variants could have transformed over time due to these factors. Please keep in mind that genealogical research would be required to confirm the precise lineage and origin of any variations of the surname Dillow.

Famous people with the name Dillow

• Clayton Dillow: Clayton Dillow is a known actor who appears in popular American movies and series.
• Scott Dillow: Scott Dillow is known as the cinematographer for "The Protoverse".
• Luke Dillow: He is recognized as a talented professional American baseball player.
• Allison Dillow: She is known for her contribution as a producer in several films.

Other surnames

Dillon

Comments or additions to the name "Dillow"

09.03.2024
Harry Conrad Dillow.
Published poet and professor emeritus
holding two PhD's.