Phillis is a unique and distinctive given name of Greek origin. It is derived from the Greek word "phullon," which means "leaf." This name was popularized by the poet John Milton, who used it in his epic poem "Paradise Lost" to refer to one of its characters, Philomela.
Phillis has a rich history and has been associated with notable figures throughout history. One such figure is Phillis Wheatley, an African-American poet who was born into slavery but gained her freedom through her literary talents. She became the first published African-American poet and her work continues to be celebrated today.
In terms of popularity, Phillis has never been a particularly common name in English-speaking countries. According to data from the Social Security Administration, it has consistently ranked below the top 1000 names for both boys and girls since records began in 1879. However, this does not detract from its unique appeal and rich historical significance.
Overall, Phillis is a beautiful and distinctive name with a fascinating origin story that sets it apart from many other names. Its Greek root meaning "leaf" adds to its natural and earthy charm, making it an appealing choice for parents looking for something a little different for their child.
The statistics provided give us an interesting insight into the popularity of the name Phillis over time in the United States.
From 1882 to 1942, there was a steady increase in the number of births registered with the name Phillis. The lowest recorded number of births in this period was 6 in 1882, and the highest was 76 in 1942. This indicates that during this time, the name Phillis was becoming more popular among parents.
However, from 1943 onwards, there is a noticeable decrease in the number of births registered with the name Phillis. The highest recorded number of births after 1943 is 95 in 1960, which is significantly lower than the peak in 1942. This trend continues until the late 1970s, with the lowest recorded number of births being 5 in 1979.
From the early 1980s to 2000, there is a slight increase in the popularity of the name Phillis, but it remains relatively uncommon. The highest recorded number of births during this period is 11 in 1983, and the lowest is 5 in both 1989 and 1999.
Overall, while the name Phillis was moderately popular among parents in the United States during certain periods, it has never been one of the most common names. The total number of births registered with the name Phillis over time is 3677, which indicates that it has been chosen by a significant but not overwhelming number of parents.
It's important to note that these statistics only reflect the popularity of the name Phillis and do not provide any information about its meaning or origin. The choice of a name for a child is often influenced by many factors, including personal preferences, family traditions, and cultural trends. Regardless of its statistical popularity, every name carries its own unique significance to those who choose it.
In conclusion, while the name Phillis has experienced periods of varying popularity in the United States over time, it remains relatively uncommon overall. Despite this, each instance of the name being chosen represents a personal and meaningful decision made by parents for their child.