Phillis

“leaf”

Greece origin · Unisex name

♂ 0% boys♀ 100% girls

#644US 2023

1.6kBirths / yr

→Stable

3.7kAll-time births

📅 Since 188200.01% of births at peak

How to pronounce Phillis

fil-is

/fil-is/ · · 2 syllables

“leaf”

Greece origin · Unisex name

What does Phillis mean and where does it come from?

Phillis is derived from the Greek word 'phyllis', meaning 'leaf'. The name gained popularity in Britain primarily due to its association with a character in the pastoral poetry of the 17th century. It was notably used in the works of poet John Milton. Additionally, Phillis Wheatley was a prominent A

Cultural significance

Phillis has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greece-speaking communities, where it reflects values of leaf.

Peak popularity

Reached #800 in 1949 — currently #644 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Phillis?

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

Phillis Grace

How popular is Phillis right now?

Holding steady — currently #644 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1890–2023#644 · Top 0.48%

1935

1940

1945

1950

1955

1960

1965

1970

1975

1980

1985

2000

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#644	1,556	▲ up 5 · +1% births
2022	#649	1,536	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021	#654	1,506	▲ up 10120 · +18725% births
2000	#10774	8	▼ down 1417 · +33% births
1985	#9357	6	▼ down 1903 · -25% births
1980	#7454	8	▼ down 3810 · -56% births
1975	#3644	18	▼ down 996 · -33% births
1970	#2648	27	▼ down 1354 · -61% births
1965	#1294	70	▼ down 185 · -26% births
1960	#1109	95	▲ up 93 · +36% births
1955	#1202	70	▼ down 283 · -26% births
1950	#919	94	▲ up 106 · +65% births
1945	#1025	57	▲ up 3 · +16% births
1940	#1028	49	▲ up 6 · +9% births
1935	#1034	45	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Phillis

Best Year2023Rank #644

Peak Count1,556

Average Rank#2535

Current Trend↘Falling

Data Range1900 - 202321 years

The story of Phillis

Phillis has been a beloved American name for over 142 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1882. With 3,683 total births recorded, Phillis remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1395 in 1890 to #644 in 2023. Phillis is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.

Names that peaked alongside Phillis in 1949:

Linda Mary Patricia Barbara Susan

Phillis by decade

Phillis peaked in the 1940s. See all 1940s names →

Decade	Births
1880s	6
1890s	62
1900s	57
1910s	200
1920s	435
1930s	468
1940s	771
1950s ★	825
1960s	601
1970s	168
1980s	69
1990s	13
2000s	8

💎With 3,683 total births, Phillis is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Phillis?

Common

PhiPhiePhyIllis

What names sound and feel like Phillis?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Phillis also consider these

Philis

Greece · leaf

Phyllis

Greece · Leafy; green bough.

Greece · foliage, green bough

Philix

Greece · Greek

Hillis

American · A beloved name

Tillis

American · English

How is Phillis written in other languages?

Common questions about the name Phillis

What does the name Phillis mean?

Phillis means "leaf" — a name rooted in Greece 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 Phillis?

Phillis is currently ranked #644 as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.

What is the cultural origin of Phillis?

Phillis originates from Greece tradition. Greece names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.

Is Phillis more of a girl or boy name?

Phillis is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.

What are good nicknames for Phillis?

Phillis naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.