Mills Unisex
Origin(s)
PronunciationMills / mɪlzEnglish; Scottish
Meaning
English: from the mill; Scottish: son of the miller
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Mills is derived from the Old English word 'mylen', meaning 'mill'. It was commonly used as a surname before becoming a given name. In medieval times, mills were essential for grinding grain, making the name associated with an important trade. The name has been used in various regions, particularly in England and Scotland.
Trend Summary
The name Mills has seen a modest rise in popularity in recent years in the United States.
Similar Names
Variants
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International Variants
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Famous people named Mills
Mills Lane was an American boxing referee and television personality known for his role in officiating high-profile boxing matches.
Mills Godwin was an American politician who served as the Governor of Virginia.
Mills Baker was an American artist recognized for his contributions to contemporary art.
Fictional characters named Mills
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Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Mills was first seen in the United States in 1882. Mills has ranked as high as #1317 nationally, which occurred in 2024, and has been most popular in Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Alabama, and Texas. In the past 5 years the name Mills has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Mills (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| GA | 5 | |
| NC | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1882 | 8 |
| 1885 | 6 |
| 1886 | 6 |
| 1896 | 5 |
| 1900 | 6 |
| 1912 | 6 |
| 1913 | 11 |
| 1914 | 11 |
| 1915 | 7 |
| 1916 | 13 |
| 1917 | 11 |
| 1918 | 11 |
| 1919 | 10 |
| 1920 | 14 |
| 1921 | 5 |
| 1922 | 14 |
| 1923 | 8 |
| 1924 | 12 |
| 1925 | 12 |
| 1926 | 6 |
| 1927 | 7 |
| 1928 | 11 |
| 1929 | 14 |
| 1930 | 5 |
| 1931 | 5 |
| 1932 | 7 |
| 1933 | 8 |
| 1935 | 10 |
| 1936 | 9 |
| 1937 | 14 |
| 1938 | 7 |
| 1940 | 7 |
| 1941 | 7 |
| 1942 | 5 |
| 1943 | 10 |
| 1944 | 9 |
| 1945 | 8 |
| 1946 | 7 |
| 1947 | 6 |
| 1948 | 7 |
| 1950 | 8 |
| 1951 | 5 |
| 1952 | 8 |
| 1954 | 5 |
| 1958 | 5 |
| 1959 | 8 |
| 1969 | 5 |
| 1982 | 11 |
| 1986 | 5 |
| 1989 | 8 |
| 1992 | 5 |
| 1996 | 8 |
| 1997 | 8 |
| 1998 | 6 |
| 1999 | 7 |
| 2000 | 14 |
| 2001 | 9 |
| 2002 | 9 |
| 2003 | 5 |
| 2004 | 8 |
| 2005 | 5 |
| 2006 | 10 |
| 2007 | 8 |
| 2008 | 9 |
| 2009 | 10 |
| 2010 | 8 |
| 2011 | 7 |
| 2012 | 20 |
| 2013 | 14 |
| 2014 | 10 |
| 2015 | 15 |
| 2016 | 22 |
| 2017 | 24 |
| 2018 | 30 |
| 2019 | 23 |
| 2020 | 29 |
| 2021 | 36 |
| 2022 | 24 |
| 2023 | 34 |
| 2024 | 43 |