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Silas

The name Silas is derived from the Latin name 'Silvanus,' which stems from the word 'silva,' meaning 'forest' or 'wood.' In the New Testament, Silas was a companion of Paul the Apostle, adding a religious and historical significance to the name. The name is often associated with a sense of natural strength and ancient wisdom.

IPA: /ˈsaɪləs/ · Simplified: SIGH-lus

Male
Latin
Christian
Europe
natural
strong
wise
historical

35/100

Popularity

Rising

10-Year Trend

5

Countries

2024

Peak Year

Meaning of Silas

Etymology, origin story, and cultural significance.

The name Silas is derived from the Latin name 'Silvanus,' which stems from the word 'silva,' meaning 'forest' or 'wood.' In the New Testament, Silas was a companion of Paul the Apostle, adding a religious and historical significance to the name. The name is often associated with a sense of natural strength and ancient wisdom.

Does Silas flow with your last name? — Run the surname compatibility check

How to pronounce Silas

IPA notation and a simplified pronunciation guide.

IPA: /ˈsaɪləs/ · Simplified: SIGH-lus

Nicknames for Silas

Common diminutives and short forms used in everyday life.

Si
Sy
Sil
Sly

Silas name popularity

Popularity score over the last 10 years and countries where this name is popular.

20152016201720182019202020212022202320240255075100

Popular in Countries

Top countries where this name is most common.

40

United States

35

United Kingdom

33

Australia

32

Canada

30

Germany

International Forms

How this name appears across different languages and cultures.

Silvanus

Names like Silas

Names with a similar feel you might also like.

Collections featuring Silas

Curated name lists where this name appears

Personality

Traits and perception commonly associated with this name.

Individuals named Silas are often seen as intelligent and thoughtful, with a natural curiosity for the world around them. They may be perceived as gentle yet determined, possessing a quiet strength that is rooted in a deep moral compass.

Name Day

Traditional celebration date for this name.

Not traditionally celebrated

Famous people named Silas

Well-known figures who share this name.

S

Silas Weir Mitchell

American actor known for his role on the series 'Grimm' (b. 1969)

Frequently asked questions about Silas

Quick answers on meaning, gender, popularity, and nicknames.

What does Silas mean?
Here is the meaning behind Silas: The name Silas is derived from the Latin name 'Silvanus,' which stems from the word 'silva,' meaning 'forest' or 'wood.' In the New Testament, Silas was a companion of Paul the Apostle, adding a religious and historical significance to the name. The name is often associated with a sense of natural strength and ancient wisdom.
Is Silas a boy or girl name?
Silas is traditionally a boy's name, though naming customs vary between cultures and families.
How popular is Silas?
Silas scores 35/100 on Namelia's popularity index, with a peak around 2024.
What are good nicknames for Silas?
Popular nicknames for Silas: Si, Sy, Sil, Sly.
What names are similar to Silas?
Names similar to Silas: Elias, Simon, Lucas, Cyrus — close in sound, origin, or style.

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