Dalton is a moderately popular boys' name in United States, ranking #432 in 2024 with 729 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 1998 with 4,563 births ranking #88. Since 1996, the popularity has decreased by 81.7%. In 2024, approximately 1 in every 2,353 boys born was named Dalton. RISING Recent data shows the name is currently rising.
Dalton is an English place-name and surname name usually meaning "settlement in the valley". It feels sturdy and familiar, with the polished shape of a reliable modern surname name.
The name became popular in the United States through the wider trend for surname-style boys' names. Its appeal comes from sounding traditional without feeling too formal.