Comprehensive Guide on the Name “Dallas”

Origin and Historical Background

The name Dallas has its origins in Scotland. It is derived from the Gaelic word “dail” which means “meadow” or “valley,” and “fas,” meaning “dwelling.” Thus, Dallas originally referred to someone who lived in a house by the meadow. The name has been used both as a first name and a surname. One of the early notable uses was in the title of the Earls of Dallas, a Scottish peerage. 

Meaning and Cultural Significance

Dallas is a name that invokes a sense of nature and tranquility. Its meaning, “meadow,” conjures images of serene, peaceful environments filled with flowers and open spaces. The name embodies a restful and pastoral quality, making it a popular choice for those who appreciate nature and simplicity. Given its neutral status, Dallas is versatile and fitting for any child regardless of gender, contributing to its growing popularity in modern times.

Famous Historical Figures with the Name Dallas

1. George Mifflin Dallas

• Historical Era: 19th Century (1792–1864)
• Key Contributions: Served as the 11th Vice President of the United States under President James K. Polk.
• Cultural Impact: His tenure saw significant events such as the annexation of Texas and the Mexican-American War, which had long-lasting effects on the geography and politics of the United States.

2. Alexander James Dallas

• Historical Era: 18th-19th Century (1759–1817)
• Key Contributions: Served as the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury under President James Madison.
• Cultural Impact: He was instrumental in reorganizing the financial system after the War of 1812, establishing the Second Bank of the United States which played a crucial role in the financial stabilization of the young nation.

Usage Over Time

The use of the name Dallas has seen some fluctuations over the years. Initially, it was more commonly used as a surname. Its popularity as a first name gained momentum in the United States during the late 20th century. By the early 2010s, it had become a more popular choice for parents, likely influenced by the trend towards nature-inspired names and its neutral gender application. According to data from the Social Security Administration, Dallas has been featured among the more popular names from various decades, reaching a peak in popularity during specific years.

Pronunciation Guide

The name Dallas is straightforward to pronounce. Phonetically, it is spelled as “DAH-luhs.” The first syllable “DAH” sounds like the word “doll,” and the second syllable “luhs” rhymes with “us.”

Biblical Context

The name Dallas does not have a direct reference in the Bible, and it does not appear as a name in any biblical texts. It is more of a modern or historical name with roots in geographical features and Gaelic language, rather than scriptural or religious origins.

Additional Unique Information

Numerology

In numerology, the name Dallas resonates with the number 6, which signifies balance, harmony, and care for the community and family.

Variations

Some variations and related names include Dallis, Dallice, and Daless.

Cultural Variants

In different cultures, Dallas might be interpreted slightly differently due to its geographical and linguistic connotations. For example, in Celtic tradition, the focus remains on its pastoral and peaceful imagery.

Popularity

Dallas’s popularity has fluctuated over the decades. It is worth noting its presence in the lists of popular names in the U.S. across different periods:

• 2010s: Increased in popularity.
• 2000s: Moderately popular.
• 1990s: Less popular compared to later years.

These trends indicate that Dallas has steadily gained favor, especially as parents gravitate towards names that are distinctive yet carry peaceful and natural meanings.

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