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.