Killis
warrior
American origin · Boy name
97% boys3% girls
#1239US 2023
961Births / yr
Stable
5All-time births
📅 Since 190500
How to pronounce Killis
KIL·iz
/ˈkɪl.ɪz/ · stress on KIL · 2 syllables
warrior
American origin · Boy name

What does Killis mean and where does it come from?

The name Killis is likely derived from the name Kelly, which is of Irish origin and means 'warrior' or 'descendant of Ceallach'. It has transformed into Killis in certain regions, particularly in the USA. The name is quite uncommon but may be used in some communities as a unique variation of Kelly.

Cultural significance
Killis has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #1410 in 1905 — currently #1239 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
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What middle names flow best with Killis?

Killis works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Killis Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Killis Rose
Floral · soft ending
Killis Mae
Sweet · timeless
Killis Claire
French influence · crisp
Killis Jane
Literary · strong
Killis Skye
Modern · airy feel
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Middle Names
The best middle names for Killis
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How popular is Killis right now?

Holding steady — currently #1239 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 19052023#1239 · Top 0.91%
1905
2021
2022
2023
YearUS RankBirthsvs Prior Year
2023#1239961▲ up 5 · +2% births
2022#1244941▲ up 5 · +3% births
2021#1249911▲ up 161 · +18120% births
1905#14105

The story of Killis

Killis entered American naming records in 1905 and has been in use for over 119 years. With 5 total births recorded, Killis remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1410 in 1905 to #1239 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Killis in 1905:

💎Killis has only 5 total recorded births since 1905 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Killis?

Common
KilKiIllis

Common questions about the name Killis

What does the name Killis mean?
Killis means "English" — a name rooted in American 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 Killis?
Killis 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 Killis?
Killis originates from American tradition. American 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 Killis?
Killis is a two-syllable name pronounced K IH1 L IH0 Z. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Killis a common or rare name?
Killis is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.