What does Phyliss mean and where does it come from?
Phyliss has roots in Greek, directly translating to 'leaf', which symbolizes growth and renewal in various cultures. This name gained popularity in English-speaking countries during the early 20th century, especially after being used in literature and theater. A notable figure includes Phyllis Dille
Cultural significance
Phyliss has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greek-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a name from the greek word 'phullon', meaning 'leaf'..
Peak popularity
Reached #1004 in 1941 — currently #786 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Greek-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Phyliss?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Phyliss?
Phyliss works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Phyliss Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Phyliss Rose
Floral · soft ending
Phyliss Mae
Sweet · timeless
Phyliss Claire
French influence · crisp
Phyliss Jane
Literary · strong
Phyliss Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Phyliss right now?
Holding steady — currently #786 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #786 | 1,414 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #791 | 1,394 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #796 | 1,364 | ▲ up 8418 · +22633% births |
| 1980 | #9214 | 6 | ▼ down 3988 · -45% births |
| 1975 | #5226 | 11 | ▼ down 925 · -15% births |
| 1970 | #4301 | 13 | ▼ down 2294 · -62% births |
| 1965 | #2007 | 34 | ▼ down 106 · -6% births |
| 1960 | #1901 | 36 | ▼ down 534 · -33% births |
| 1955 | #1367 | 54 | ▼ down 247 · -21% births |
| 1950 | #1120 | 68 | ▲ up 10 · +39% births |
| 1945 | #1130 | 49 | ▼ down 24 · +14% births |
| 1940 | #1106 | 43 | ▼ down 56 · -2% births |
| 1935 | #1050 | 44 | ▲ up 289 · +33% births |
| 1930 | #1339 | 33 | ▼ down 116 · -20% births |
| 1925 | #1223 | 41 | — |
The story of Phyliss
Phyliss entered American naming records in 1909 and has been in use for over 115 years. With 2,406 total births recorded, Phyliss remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2362 in 1915 to #786 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Phyliss in 1941:
Phyliss by decade
Phyliss peaked in the 1940s. See all 1940s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1900s | 5 | |
| 1910s | 131 | |
| 1920s | 358 | |
| 1930s | 407 | |
| 1940s | 541 | |
| 1950s ★ | 549 | |
| 1960s | 336 | |
| 1970s | 60 | |
| 1980s | 19 | |
💎With 2,406 total births, Phyliss is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Phyliss?
Common
PhyPhyliPhyliePhyly
Famous people named Phyliss
P(
Phyliss (Greek mythological figure)
Phyliss carried this name in Greek mythology, connecting it to divine or heroic tradition.
P(
Phyliss (ancient philosopher)
Phyliss bore this name in classical Greece, where it was associated with wisdom and learning.
P(
Phyliss (Byzantine leader)
Phyliss used this name through the Byzantine Empire, preserving its Greek heritage into the medieval era.
P(
Phyliss (Greek poet or artist)
Phyliss helped establish this as a name of cultural and artistic prestige in the Hellenic world.
👑
Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Phyliss?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Phyliss also consider these
How is Phyliss written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Phyliss
What does the name Phyliss mean?
Phyliss means "A name from the Greek word 'phullon', meaning 'leaf'." — a name rooted in Greek 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 Phyliss?
Phyliss is currently ranked #786 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 Phyliss?
Phyliss originates from Greek tradition. Greek 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 Phyliss?
Phyliss is a two-syllable name pronounced F AY1 L IH1 S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Phyliss a classic or a modern name?
Phyliss has Greek roots that go back thousands of years, making it a genuine classic rather than a modern invention. Its staying power across generations reflects its fundamental appeal and the strength of its meaning.