“shield bearer” — Associated with various saints and notable figures
France origin · Boy name
♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls
#1829US 2023
371Births / yr
→Stable
357All-time births
📅 Since 192300
How to pronounce Gilles
ZHEEL
/ˈʒiːl/ · stress on ZHEEL · 1 syllable
“shield bearer”
Associated with various saints and notable figures · France origin
What does Gilles mean and where does it come from?
Gilles is a French given name that derives from the Greek name 'Aegidius', meaning 'shield bearer'. It is a historically significant name in France, associated with various saints and notable figures, particularly Saint Gilles. The name gained popularity in the medieval period and remains common in
Cultural significance
Gilles has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in France-speaking communities, where it reflects values of greek.
Peak popularity
Reached #2130 in 1946 — currently #1829 in the US.
Holding steady — currently #1829 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1935–2023#1829 · Top 1.3%
1935
1940
1945
1950
1955
1960
1970
1975
1985
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1829
371
▲ up 5 · +6% births
2022
#1834
351
▲ up 5 · +9% births
2021
#1839
321
▲ up 4972 · +6320% births
1985
#6811
5
▼ down 1060
1975
#5751
5
▼ down 702
1970
#5049
5
▼ down 673
1960
#4376
5
▼ down 1662 · -50% births
1955
#2714
10
▲ up 1316 · +100% births
1950
#4030
5
▼ down 1063 · -29% births
1945
#2967
7
▲ up 894 · +40% births
1940
#3861
5
▼ down 1335 · -50% births
1935
#2526
10
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Gilles
2023Rank #1829
371
#3632
↘Falling
1935 - 202312 years
The story of Gilles
Gilles entered American naming records in 1923 and has been in use for over 101 years. With 357 total births recorded, Gilles remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2526 in 1935 to #1829 in 2023.
Gilles means "Greek" — a name rooted in France 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 Gilles?
Gilles is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Gilles?
Gilles originates from France tradition. France 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 Gilles?
Gilles is a one-syllable name pronounced ZH IY1 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Gilles sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Gilles flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Gilles ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Sibling names that pair with Gilles
For a sister
Gilles & Calvin♡
Gilles & Alan♡
Gilles & Rosalie♡
Gilles & Nicolas♡
For a brother
Gilles & Calvin♡
Gilles & Alan♡
Gilles & Rosalie♡
Gilles & Nicolas♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#1829
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
—
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