What does Phylliss mean and where does it come from?
Phylliss is derived from the Greek name 'Phyllis', which means 'leafy', often associated with nature and vitality. It has been used since classical antiquity and references a figure in Greek mythology known for her tragic love story. The name experienced renewed interest during the 20th century, par
Cultural significance
Phylliss has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greek-speaking communities, where it reflects values of foliage, green leaves.
Peak popularity
Reached #1869 in 1939 — currently #1595 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greek-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Phylliss?
Phylliss works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Phylliss Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Phylliss Rose
Floral · soft ending
Phylliss Mae
Sweet · timeless
Phylliss Claire
French influence · crisp
Phylliss Jane
Literary · strong
Phylliss Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Phylliss right now?
Holding steady — currently #1595 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1595 | 605 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2022 | #1600 | 585 | ▲ up 5 · +5% births |
| 2021 | #1605 | 555 | ▲ up 5673 · +9150% births |
| 1970 | #7278 | 6 | ▼ down 3235 · -45% births |
| 1965 | #4043 | 11 | ▼ down 769 · -27% births |
| 1960 | #3274 | 15 | ▲ up 214 · +25% births |
| 1955 | #3488 | 12 | ▼ down 1551 · -52% births |
| 1950 | #1937 | 25 | ▲ up 276 · +56% births |
| 1945 | #2213 | 16 | ▲ up 1945 · +167% births |
| 1940 | #4158 | 6 | ▼ down 1454 · -45% births |
| 1935 | #2704 | 11 | ▲ up 325 · +10% births |
| 1930 | #3029 | 10 | ▲ up 605 · +11% births |
| 1925 | #3634 | 9 | — |
The story of Phylliss
Phylliss entered American naming records in 1917 and has been in use for over 107 years. With 597 total births recorded, Phylliss remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3634 in 1925 to #1595 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Phylliss in 1939:
Phylliss by decade
Phylliss peaked in the 1930s. See all 1930s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 10 | |
| 1920s | 85 | |
| 1930s | 122 | |
| 1940s | 145 | |
| 1950s ★ | 151 | |
| 1960s | 78 | |
| 1970s | 6 | |
💎Phylliss has only 597 total recorded births since 1917 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Phylliss?
Common
PhyPhylliPhylliePhylly
Famous people named Phylliss
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Phylliss (Byzantine leader)
Phylliss used this name through the Byzantine Empire, preserving its Greek heritage into the medieval era.
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Phylliss (ancient philosopher)
Phylliss bore this name in classical Greece, where it was associated with wisdom and learning.
P(
Phylliss (Greek mythological figure)
Phylliss carried this name in Greek mythology, connecting it to divine or heroic tradition.
P(
Phylliss (Byzantine leader)
Phylliss used this name through the Byzantine Empire, preserving its Greek heritage into the medieval era.
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Celebrity Names
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Explore →What names sound and feel like Phylliss?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Phylliss also consider these
Common questions about the name Phylliss
What does the name Phylliss mean?
Phylliss means "foliage, green leaves" — 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 Phylliss?
Phylliss is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Phylliss?
Phylliss 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.
Is Phylliss a common or rare name?
Phylliss is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Phylliss a classic or a modern name?
Phylliss 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.