ദിലീപ്

Dileep

boySanskritHindu

Dileep is a Hindu boy name of Sanskrit origin, meaning “Protector; name of an ancient king”.

MeaningProtector; name of an ancient king
GenderBoy
OriginSanskrit
Written asദിലീപ്
Pronunciationdi-LEEP
TraditionHindu
Used inIndia, Nepal

Meaning and origin of Dileep

Dileep comes from Dilipa, a legendary king of the solar dynasty and an ancestor of Rama. In Kalidasa's Raghuvamsha, Dilipa serves the sacred cow Nandini and offers his own life to protect her, and is rewarded with a son, Raghu. The meaning of the name itself is uncertain, though it is often glossed 'protector'. The Malayalam actor Dileep is a well-known modern bearer.

Is Dileep a Hindu name?

Dileep is a Hindu name honouring King Dilipa, celebrated in the Raghuvamsha as a model of selfless duty and an ancestor of Lord Rama.

How popular is Dileep?

Common in Kerala and throughout India as Dilip.

Gifts with the name Dileep

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a small commission from these links, at no extra cost to you.

Spellings and variants of Dileep

DilipDilipaDeelip

Names similar to Dileep

More Hindu boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Dileep mean?

Dileep means 'Protector; name of an ancient king'. It is of Sanskrit origin.

Is Dileep a Hindu name?

Dileep is a Hindu name honouring King Dilipa, celebrated in the Raghuvamsha as a model of selfless duty and an ancestor of Lord Rama.

How do you pronounce Dileep?

Dileep is pronounced di-LEEP.

Is Dileep a boy or girl name?

Dileep is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.