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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Related Reading
Greece-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →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
Most popular combo · classic
Phylis Rose
Floral · soft ending
Phylis Mae
Sweet · timeless
Phylis Claire
French influence · crisp
Phylis Jane
Literary · strong
Phylis Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Phylis right now?
Holding steady — currently #670 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| 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 | — |
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:
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?
What names sound and feel like Phylis?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Phylis also consider these
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.