Dalton

boyOld English

Dalton is an boy name of Old English origin, meaning “Settlement in the valley”.

MeaningSettlement in the valley
GenderBoy
OriginOld English
PronunciationDAWL-tun
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia

Meaning and origin of Dalton

Dalton began as an English place name built from Old English dæl, 'valley', and tun, 'farmstead' or 'settlement'. Several villages in northern England carry it, and people who came from them took Dalton as a surname. Like many surnames it moved into first-name use, especially in North America during the twentieth century. Well-known bearers include the British chemist John Dalton, whose atomic theory shaped modern chemistry, and the actor Timothy Dalton.

Is Dalton a religious name?

Dalton is a secular English place-name and surname with no religious background. Families of any faith or none use it.

How popular is Dalton?

An established but uncommon boy's name, used mostly in the United States and Canada.

Gifts with the name Dalton

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Spellings and variants of Dalton

Dallton

Names similar to Dalton

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Dalton mean?

Dalton means 'Settlement in the valley'. It is of Old English origin.

Does Dalton have a religious meaning?

Dalton is a secular English place-name and surname with no religious background. Families of any faith or none use it.

How do you pronounce Dalton?

Dalton is pronounced DAWL-tun.

Is Dalton a boy or girl name?

Dalton is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.