What does Pilar mean and where does it come from?
The name Pilar is of Spanish origin and is often associated with the Virgin Mary, specifically referring to 'Our Lady of the Pillar', a vision of the Virgin Mary said to have appeared to the apostle James in Spain. The name is particularly popular among Spanish-speaking countries and is used both as
Cultural significance
Pilar has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Spain-speaking communities, where it reflects values of pillar.
Peak popularity
Reached #1319 in 1924 — currently #834 in the US.
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Related Reading
Spain-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Pilar?
Pilar works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Pilar Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Pilar Rose
Floral · soft ending
Pilar Mae
Sweet · timeless
Pilar Claire
French influence · crisp
Pilar Jane
Literary · strong
Pilar Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Pilar right now?
Holding steady — currently #834 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #834 | 1,366 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #839 | 1,346 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #844 | 1,316 | ▲ up 2414 · +2700% births |
| 2020 | #3258 | 47 | ▼ down 7 · -6% births |
| 2015 | #3251 | 50 | ▼ down 979 · -40% births |
| 2010 | #2272 | 84 | ▼ down 758 · -39% births |
| 2005 | #1514 | 137 | ▲ up 29 · +18% births |
| 2000 | #1543 | 116 | ▲ up 397 · +63% births |
| 1995 | #1940 | 71 | ▼ down 609 · -41% births |
| 1990 | #1331 | 121 | ▲ up 692 · +128% births |
| 1985 | #2023 | 53 | ▼ down 270 · -16% births |
| 1980 | #1753 | 63 | ▼ down 268 · -9% births |
| 1975 | #1485 | 69 | ▼ down 140 · -12% births |
| 1970 | #1345 | 78 | ▲ up 146 · +39% births |
| 1965 | #1491 | 56 | — |
The story of Pilar
Pilar has been a beloved American name for over 128 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1896. With 6,012 total births recorded, Pilar remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1734 in 1910 to #834 in 2023. Pilar is used for both genders: 87% female and 13% male.
Names that peaked alongside Pilar in 1924:
Pilar by decade
Pilar peaked in the 1920s. See all 1920s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 10 | |
| 1900s | 28 | |
| 1910s | 209 | |
| 1920s | 384 | |
| 1930s | 243 | |
| 1940s | 226 | |
| 1950s | 346 | |
| 1960s | 614 | |
| 1970s | 689 | |
| 1980s | 646 | |
| 1990s | 820 | |
| 2000s ★ | 1,124 | |
| 2010s | 626 | |
| 2020s | 47 | |
💎With 6,012 total births, Pilar is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Pilar?
What names sound and feel like Pilar?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Pilar also consider these
Common questions about the name Pilar
What does the name Pilar mean?
Pilar means "pillar" — a name rooted in Spain 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 Pilar?
Pilar is currently ranked #834 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 Pilar?
Pilar originates from Spain tradition. Spain 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 Pilar?
Pilar is a two-syllable name pronounced P AY1 L ER0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Pilar a common or rare name?
Pilar is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.