Phylis

“foliage, green bough” — Associated with the ancient myth of Phyllis

Greece origin · Girl name

♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls

#670US 2023

1.5kBirths / yr

→Stable

3.3kAll-time births

📅 Since 189600.01% of births at peak

What does Phylis mean and where does it come from?

Phylis is derived from the Greek name 'Phyllis' (Φύλλις), which means 'foliage' or 'green bough'. It is associated with the ancient myth of Phyllis, a woman who fell in love with Demophon, the son of Theseus. The name became popular in English-speaking countries during the Renaissance. Phylis has se

Cultural significance

Phylis has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greece-speaking communities, where it reflects values of foliage, green bough.

Peak popularity

Reached #789 in 1943 — currently #670 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Phylis?

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

Phylis Grace

How popular is Phylis right now?

Holding steady — currently #670 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1900–2023#670 · Top 0.49%

1925

1930

1935

1940

1945

1950

1955

1960

1965

1970

1975

1985

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#670	1,530	▲ up 5 · +1% births
2022	#675	1,510	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021	#680	1,480	▲ up 10113 · +29500% births
1985	#10793	5	▼ down 5579 · -55% births
1975	#5214	11	▼ down 414
1970	#4800	11	▼ down 3026 · -73% births
1965	#1774	41	▼ down 325 · -29% births
1960	#1449	58	▼ down 186 · -9% births
1955	#1263	64	▼ down 234 · -19% births
1950	#1029	79	▼ down 96 · +18% births
1945	#933	67	▼ down 72 · -3% births
1940	#861	69	▲ up 175 · +53% births
1935	#1036	45	▼ down 207 · -39% births
1930	#829	74	▲ up 415 · +85% births
1925	#1244	40	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Phylis

Best Year2023Rank #670

Peak Count1,530

Average Rank#2083

Current Trend↘Falling

Data Range1900 - 202319 years

The story of Phylis

Phylis has been a beloved American name for over 128 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1896. With 3,342 total births recorded, Phylis remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1867 in 1900 to #670 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Phylis in 1943:

Mary Barbara Patricia Linda Carol

Phylis by decade

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

Decade	Births
1890s	5
1900s	25
1910s	261
1920s	518
1930s	625
1940s ★	857
1950s	641
1960s	345
1970s	60
1980s	5

💎With 3,342 total births, Phylis is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Phylis?

Common

PhyPhylisiePhylisy

What names sound and feel like Phylis?

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

Phyllis

Greece · Leafy; green bough.

American · Derived from the

Dylis

Welsh · A Welsh name

Common questions about the name Phylis

What does the name Phylis mean?

Phylis means "foliage, green bough" — 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 Phylis?

Phylis is currently ranked #670 as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.

What is the cultural origin of Phylis?

Phylis 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.

What are good nicknames for Phylis?

Phylis 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.

What personality traits are associated with the name Phylis?

Studies on name perception suggest that Phylis is often associated with balance and approachability. Of course, personality is shaped by experience, not a name — but the perception can influence first impressions throughout life.