All about the name

Gillis

Male

« Gillis is a rare Dutch given name derived from an Old Germanic personal name meaning "glorious" or "precious". »

#6191 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Gillis is a unique and distinctive given name of Dutch origin. It is derived from the Dutch surname Gillis, which itself has its roots in the Old Germanic personal name Gilliz or Gillicus. This name is believed to have been brought to the Netherlands by way of France during the Middle Ages. The meaning behind the name Gillis is not entirely clear, but it is thought to be associated with the Old Germanic word "gil" which means "glory" or "jewel". Therefore, Gillis could be interpreted as meaning "glorious" or "precious". In history, there are several notable figures who have borne the name Gillis. One of the most famous is Saint Gillis, also known as Gilles, who was a French priest and martyr during the Catholic Church's early years. He was canonized in 1073 by Pope Alexander II, and his feast day is celebrated on September 1st. Despite its rich history and interesting origins, the name Gillis has not been widely used outside of the Netherlands. However, it remains a unique choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their child. It also has the benefit of being unisex, as it can be given to both boys and girls. Overall, Gillis is a name with a fascinating past that continues to hold significance today.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Gillis since 1880

Total births
712
Total since 1880
Peak year
1923
20 births
in 2001
6
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years