“Possibly derived from 'Elijah,' meaning 'My God is Yahweh.'”
Russia origin · Unisex name
♂ 84% boys♀ 16% girls
#3442US 2023
34Births / yr
↑Rising
954All-time births
📅 Since 196100
How to pronounce Ilya
ILY·uh
/ˈɪlj.ə/ · stress on ILY · 2 syllables
“Possibly derived from 'Elijah,' meaning 'My God is Yahweh.'”
Russia origin · Unisex name
What does Ilya mean and where does it come from?
Ilya is often considered a unisex name but is predominantly used for males in Russia. In Hebrew culture, the name takes on a more feminine spelling and form. It has gained some popularity in various cultures outside of its origins, notably in the United States. Throughout history, names with connect
Cultural significance
Ilya has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Russia-speaking communities, where it reflects values of possibly derived from 'elijah,' meaning 'my god is yahweh.'.
Peak popularity
Reached #6090 in 2020 — currently #3442 in the US.
Rising fast — up 586 spots — currently #3442 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1980–2023#3442 · Top 2.5%
1980
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#3442
34
▲ up 586 · +26% births
2022
#4028
27
▼ down 883 · -29% births
2021
#3145
38
▲ up 2945 · +100% births
2020
#6090
19
▲ up 7126 · +171% births
2015
#13216
7
▼ down 730 · -12% births
2010
#12486
8
▼ down 3930 · +14% births
1980
#8556
7
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Ilya
2021Rank #3145
38
#7280
↗Rising
1980 - 20237 years
The story of Ilya
Ilya is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1961. With 954 total births recorded, Ilya remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #8556 in 1980 to #3442 in 2023. Ilya is used for both genders: 16% female and 84% male.
Ilya means "Possibly derived from 'Elijah,' meaning 'My God is Yahweh.'" — a name rooted in Russia 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 Ilya?
Ilya is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby 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 Ilya?
Ilya originates from Russia tradition. Russia 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 Ilya?
Ilya is a two-syllable name pronounced IH1 L Y AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Ilya a common or rare name?
Ilya is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Ilya
For a sister
Ilya & Kira♡
Ilya & Anya♡
Ilya & Nadia♡
Ilya & Jernya♡
For a brother
Ilya & Kira♡
Ilya & Nadia♡
Ilya & Domitri♡
Ilya & Nikolai♡
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