What does Phyllis mean and where does it come from?
Phyllis is derived from the Greek word 'phyllon' meaning 'leaf.' In Greek mythology, Phyllis was a character known for her tragic love story, reflecting themes of love and loss. The name became popular in the English-speaking world in the early 20th century and has seen periodic revivals. It carries
Cultural significance
Phyllis has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greece-speaking communities, where it reflects values of leafy; green bough..
Peak popularity
Reached #24 in 1929 — currently #600 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greece-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Phyllis?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Phyllis?
Phyllis works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Phyllis Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Phyllis Rose
Floral · soft ending
Phyllis Mae
Sweet · timeless
Phyllis Claire
French influence · crisp
Phyllis Jane
Literary · strong
Phyllis Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Phyllis right now?
Holding steady — currently #600 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #600 | 1,600 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #605 | 1,580 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #610 | 1,550 | ▲ up 5200 · +7650% births |
| 2020 | #5810 | 20 | ▲ up 17 · -9% births |
| 2015 | #5827 | 22 | ▼ down 410 · -12% births |
| 2010 | #5417 | 25 | ▼ down 1043 · -19% births |
| 2005 | #4374 | 31 | ▼ down 1039 · -22% births |
| 2000 | #3335 | 40 | ▼ down 1353 · -42% births |
| 1995 | #1982 | 69 | ▼ down 266 · -19% births |
| 1990 | #1716 | 85 | ▼ down 597 · -34% births |
| 1985 | #1119 | 129 | ▼ down 265 · -29% births |
| 1980 | #854 | 181 | ▼ down 323 · -44% births |
| 1975 | #531 | 325 | ▼ down 190 · -58% births |
| 1970 | #341 | 767 | ▼ down 186 · -69% births |
| 1965 | #155 | 2,465 | — |
The story of Phyllis
Phyllis has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #24 in 1929. More than 323,297 babies have been named Phyllis since 1880. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #820 in 1880 to #600 in 2023. Phyllis is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Phyllis in 1929:
Phyllis by decade
Phyllis peaked in the 1920s. See all 1920s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 153 | |
| 1890s | 633 | |
| 1900s | 2,024 | |
| 1910s | 17,924 | |
| 1920s | 62,006 | |
| 1930s | 74,062 | |
| 1940s ★ | 76,375 | |
| 1950s | 57,888 | |
| 1960s | 25,765 | |
| 1970s | 3,843 | |
| 1980s | 1,430 | |
| 1990s | 685 | |
| 2000s | 294 | |
| 2010s | 195 | |
| 2020s | 20 | |
What are good nicknames for Phyllis?
Common
PhyPhyllisiePhyllisy
What names sound and feel like Phyllis?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Phyllis also consider these
How is Phyllis written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Phyllis
What does the name Phyllis mean?
Phyllis means "Leafy; 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 Phyllis?
Phyllis is currently ranked #600 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 Phyllis?
Phyllis 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.
How do you pronounce the name Phyllis?
Phyllis is a two-syllable name pronounced F IH1 L IH0 S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Phyllis more of a girl or boy name?
Phyllis is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.