Origin
Derived from the Latin 'Aegidius', meaning 'young goat' or 'kid'. The name has roots in late antiquity, notably associated with Saint Giles, a 7th-century Christian hermit and saint venerated across Europe. In medieval times, 'Giles' became popular through the veneration of Saint Giles of Auxerre and Saint Giles of Provence, with the name spreading throughout Christian Europe. It entered the English lexicon via Norman influence and has been used in Australia since colonial times, primarily through European settlers.
Meaning
Literal translation as 'young goat'. In Australian English contexts, it carries connotations of tradition, heritage, and a classic British association, often linked to rural or pastoral imagery.
Pronunciation
/ˈdʒaɪlz/ (Australian English pronunciation: 'Jyles', with a soft 'J' as in 'juice' and stress on the first syllable). Typically pronounced with a long 'i' as in 'ice'.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Giles (original spelling)
- Gilles (French variants)
- Gillis (Scandinavian variants)
Nicknames
- Gilly
- Gilesy
Name Days
- 1 September (Feast day of Saint Giles in the Catholic Church)
- Auguste (regional variations and local church calendars)
- In Australia, the name does not have a widely observed name day but is sometimes associated with the feast of Saint Giles on 1 September.
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with giles:
- Charlotte and Giles
- William and Giles
- Emily and Giles
Fun Facts
- The name Giles is sometimes used for characters in Australian literature and drama, reflecting its classical roots.
- Famous Australian bearer: Giles Thorpe, a noted architect in Sydney during the 20th century.
- The name is occasionally borne by Australian racehorses, symbolising stamina and tradition.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name giles:
- Traditional
- Reliable
- Heritage-oriented
- Steadfast
Aesthetic Qualities
Classic and balanced typographically, visually appealing in both formal and informal contexts, often paired with traditional or vintage styling in design.
Geographical Distribution
More common in southern states like Victoria and South Australia, where British influence historically remained strong, but generally seen across all regions.
Numerological Significance
Name number 8, associated with power, ambition, and material success in numerology. Conveys a sense of strength and organisational ability in astrological interpretations.
Astrological Connections
Connected with the zodiac signs Capricorn and Aquarius, representing discipline, innovation, and practicality, reflecting the name's heritage of perseverance and resilience.
Historical Context
Saint Giles was a popular figure in Medieval Europe, inspiring numerous churches and communities bearing his name. In Australian history, the name is associated with early colonial settlers of British origin, often linked to pastoral and rural communities.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name adapts mainly within English-speaking countries; lesser variations in non-Latin script languages. No significant phonetic shifts in Australian English beyond standard pronunciation.
Famous People Named giles
- Giles Thorpe (Australian architect)
- Giles New (historian)
- Giles Couper (musician)
Popularity in Australia
| Year | Count |
|---|---|
| 2017 | 1 |