What does Gilead mean and where does it come from?
The name Gilead has significant biblical roots and is mentioned in the Old Testament. In the Hebrew Bible, Gilead is a region east of the Jordan River, associated with balm and healing. The name symbolizes strength, refuge, and healing. Gilead has also been used in modern literature and media, makin
Cultural significance
Gilead has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Biblical origin-speaking communities, where it reflects values of hill of testimony,.
Peak popularity
Reached #7278 in 2015 — currently #11290 in the US.
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Related Reading
Biblical origin-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Gilead?
Gilead works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Gilead Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Gilead Rose
Floral · soft ending
Gilead Mae
Sweet · timeless
Gilead Claire
French influence · crisp
Gilead Jane
Literary · strong
Gilead Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Gilead right now?
Falling — down 2014 spots — currently #11290 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #11290 | 6 | ▼ down 2014 · -25% births |
| 2022 | #9276 | 8 | ▼ down 1492 · -20% births |
| 2021 | #7784 | 10 | ▼ down 506 · -9% births |
| 2015 | #7278 | 11 | — |
The story of Gilead
Gilead is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1992. With 53 total births recorded, Gilead remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #7278 in 2015, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #11290 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Gilead in 2015:
Gilead by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1990s | 5 | |
| 2000s | 9 | |
| 2010s ★ | 39 | |
💎Gilead has only 53 total recorded births since 1992 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Gilead?
What names sound and feel like Gilead?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Gilead also consider these
How is Gilead written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Gilead
What does the name Gilead mean?
Gilead means "Hill of testimony," — a name rooted in Biblical origin tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Gilead?
Gilead is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Gilead?
Gilead originates from Biblical origin tradition. Biblical origin names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Gilead?
Gilead is a two-syllable name pronounced G IH0 L IY1 D. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Gilead a common or rare name?
Gilead is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.