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.
🌿
Related Reading
Greece-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →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
Most popular combo · classic
Phillis Rose
Floral · soft ending
Phillis Mae
Sweet · timeless
Phillis Claire
French influence · crisp
Phillis Jane
Literary · strong
Phillis Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Phillis right now?
Holding steady — currently #644 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| 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 | — |
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:
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?
What names sound and feel like Phillis?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Phillis also consider these
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.