All about the name

Hillery

Male

« Hillery is a rare American given name coined by Edgar Allan Poe in his 1842 short story "The Masque of the Red Death. »

#7652 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Hillery is a unique and distinctive given name of American origin. It is not particularly common, which adds to its charm and intrigue. The name Hillery is believed to have been coined by the American author and poet Edgar Allan Poe in his short story "The Masque of the Red Death," published in 1842. In the story, Poe introduces a character named Prince Prospero's betrothed, Princess Hillery. It is worth noting that this is one of the few instances where Poe uses an invented name for a female character in his works. The story itself is a classic tale of mystery and horror, which adds a layer of intrigue to the name Hillery. The meaning and significance of the name Hillery are not explicitly defined as it is an invention of Edgar Allan Poe's imagination. However, some people have interpreted its meaning based on its association with Princess Hillery in Poe's story. For instance, some believe that Hillery signifies nobility, grace, and perhaps even a hint of mystery or unpredictability, reflecting the characteristics of Poe's characters. In terms of history, there are no notable figures named Hillery beyond Edgar Allan Poe's character. However, this does not diminish the name's uniqueness and potential for significance to those who choose it. Today, Hillery remains a rare but captivating choice for a given name, often favored by parents seeking an uncommon yet meaningful moniker for their child. In conclusion, Hillery is an American given name created by Edgar Allan Poe in his short story "The Masque of the Red Death." Its meaning and significance are open to interpretation, often associated with nobility, grace, and mystery. While not historically prominent, Hillery's unique origin and association with Poe's work make it a distinctive choice for those looking for an uncommon name with literary roots.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Hillery since 1880

Total births
501
Total since 1880
Peak year
1921
17 births
in 1983
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years