Giles
Meaning of Giles
Giles, pronounced /dʒaɪls/, derives from the Latin Aegidius—originally meaning “young goat”—and entered Middle English via Old French Gille. Historically linked to Saint Giles, an eighth-century hermit revered throughout medieval Europe, it acquired connotations of protection and discretion in ecclesiastical contexts. Analysis of U.S. Social Security data shows that Giles reached peak relative popularity in the early 20th century and has since maintained a stable yet modest presence; from 2014 to 2024 its rank fluctuated between 893 and 930, with 11 to 29 annual occurrences and a 2024 rank of 905 (19 births). This technical profile underscores its suitability for those seeking a distinctive, time-tested English name with medieval pedigree.
Pronunciation
English
- Pronunced as jylz (/dʒaɪls/)
U.S. Popularity Chart
Notable People Named Giles
| Sir Giles Gilbert Scott was a British architect best known for designing Liverpool Cathedral, Battersea Power Station and the iconic red telephone box. |
| Giles Deacon is an award-winning British fashion designer known for bold prints and imaginative womenswear. |
| Giles Corey was an English-born farmer who died after refusing to plead to witchcraft charges during the Salem witch trials. |
| Giles Daubeney, 1st Baron Daubeney, was an English soldier, diplomat, courtier and politician. |
| Giles Fraser is an English Anglican priest, journalist, and broadcaster known for his contributions to The Guardian and BBC radio. |
| Giles Andreae is a British writer and illustrator best known for creating Purple Ronnie and writing the beloved picture book Giraffes Can't Dance. |
| Giles Milton is a British writer and journalist known for narrative history books such as Nathaniel's Nutmeg and Churchill's Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare. |
| Giles Martin is an acclaimed English record producer, songwriter and musician, and the son of Beatles producer George Martin. |
| Giles Tremlett - Giles E.H. Tremlett is a historian, author and journalist based in Madrid, Spain. |
| Giles Kristian is an English singer and bestselling historical novelist best known for his Viking adventure series Raven. |
| Giles Foden is an English author best known for his 1998 novel The Last King of Scotland. |
| Giles Watling is a British actor known for playing Oswald in Bread and a former Conservative MP for Clacton. |
