Comprehensive Guide on the Name “Dalton”

Origin and Historical Background

Dalton finds its roots in Old English, derived from “Doel” meaning ‘dale’ or ‘valley’ and “tun” meaning ‘town’ or ‘settlement’. Thus, Dalton literally translates to ‘from the valley town’. This name has origins in various places across England, such as in Lancashire and Cumbria, indicating its geographical rather than noble inception. It was primarily used as a surname, often identifying individuals based on where they lived, before evolving into a given name over the centuries.

Meaning and Cultural Significance

Given its meaning, Dalton conveys imagery of a serene, peaceful, and quiet settlement nestled within a fertile valley. It suggests a connection to nature and tranquility, evoking a pleasant atmosphere. For parents seeking a name that reflects a love for serene landscapes and a quiet, harmonious life, Dalton presents a strong choice. This name can often give a sense of grounding and simple living, which might be appealing in the modern, fast-paced world.

Famous Historical Figures with the Name Dalton

1. Dalton Trumbo

• Historical Era: 20th Century
• Key Contributions: An influential American screenwriter and novelist, Trumbo was one of the Hollywood Ten, a group blacklisted by Hollywood studios during the McCarthy era. Despite being blacklisted, he wrote several successful films, including “Roman Holiday” and “Spartacus”.
• Cultural Impact: His courage and commitment to freedom of speech had a lasting impact on the film industry and American culture.

2. John Dalton

• Historical Era: 18th-19th Century
• Key Contributions: An English chemist, physicist, and meteorologist, John Dalton is best known for his pioneering work in the development of modern atomic theory and his research into color blindness (sometimes referred to as Daltonism).
• Cultural Impact: His scientific discoveries laid the groundwork for future advancements in chemistry and physics, and he remains a significant figure in the history of science.

Usage Over Time

The name Dalton has seen fluctuating popularity over the decades. Initially more common as a surname, it began to gain traction as a given name in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. According to US Social Security Administration data, Dalton experienced notable popularity spikes in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Between 2000 and 2010, it consistently appeared in the top 200 names for boys, but its popularity has since waned somewhat.

Pronunciation Guide

Dalton is pronounced /DAWL-tuhn/. The first syllable “Dawl” rhymes with “hall” or “ball”, and the second syllable “tuhn” is relatively short and unstressed, similar to the “ton” in “button”. This straightforward pronunciation makes it easy to say and remember.

Biblical Context

Dalton does not have direct biblical references or contexts. It does not appear in the scriptures or in biblical genealogies. However, its meaning resonates with biblical themes of pastoral and natural beauty, often depicted in the Bible.

Additional Unique Information

Numerology

In numerology, the name Dalton corresponds to the number 7, which is often associated with introspection, analysis, and spirituality. People with this number are considered thoughtful and wise.

Variations and Cultural Variants

In terms of cultural variants, Dalton remains consistent across various languages, though it is primarily used in English-speaking countries.

Popularity

While Dalton may not currently be at the height of its popularity, names with historical and meaningful roots often come back into fashion. As of recent years, the name has seen a gentle decline in popularity after peaking around the turn of the millennium.

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