Dally Winston, a character in S.E. Hinton's The Outsiders , is generally portrayed as being 17 years old in the novel. He is one of the older members of the Greasers gang, whose ages typically range from about 14 to 20, with most members being 16 or 17
. Some sources note he might be 18, which still places him among the older teens in the group, reflecting his role as a tough, streetwise figure who has experienced a harsh life from a young age
. His age is significant because it highlights the tension between adolescence and adulthood that defines his character. Despite being a teenager, Dally carries the burdens of adult responsibilities and a criminal past, which contribute to his hardened and rebellious nature. His youth contrasts with the tough exterior and tragic trajectory he embodies, making his character both complex and poignant
. In summary, Dally is about 17 years old in The Outsiders , which is key to understanding his role as a tough, protective, and ultimately tragic figure among the Greasers
