Niles Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationNYLES / /naɪlz/English; Irish
Meaning
English: son of the champion; Irish: from the island
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Niles is believed to have its roots in the Latin name 'Nilus,' which is derived from the Greek 'Νεῖλος' (Neilos), referring to the Nile River in Egypt. The etymology traces back to the ancient Egyptian word 'nḥl,' meaning 'valley,' which is fitting given the Nile's significance as a life-giving river in the region. The name entered the English language through various adaptations over the centuries, particularly during the Renaissance when classical names were revived and incorporated into English usage.
Historically, the name Niles has been associated with several notable figures. One of the earliest references is to Saint Niles, a 4th-century Christian martyr, who is venerated in various Christian traditions. The name gained further recognition in the medieval period, particularly in England, where it was sometimes used as a surname. The name's connection to the Nile River also imbued it with connotations of fertility and abundance, reflective of the river's crucial role in sustaining ancient Egyptian civilization.
Culturally, Niles has resonated through literature and the arts, often symbolizing depth and richness, akin to the river itself. The name has appeared in various literary works, contributing to its enduring presence in Western culture. Additionally, diminutive forms such as 'Nile' have emerged, though they are less commonly used. Overall, the name Niles carries a historical weight that reflects its ancient origins and the cultural significance of the Nile River throughout history.
Trend Summary
The name Niles has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, with a notable presence in the late 20th century.
Similar Names
Variants
- Nyle
International Variants
- Niall (Irish)
- Nilesh (Indian)
Famous people named Niles
Niles Crane is a character best known for the television series Frasier.
Niles Rogers is a musician and producer best known for his work with Chic, and producing albums for David Bowie and Madonna.
Fictional characters named Niles
Niles Crane is a fictional character from the TV show Frasier. He is the neurotic and sophisticated brother of the main character, Frasier Crane.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Niles was first seen in the United States in 1897. Niles has ranked as high as #1185 nationally, which occurred in 1998, and has been most popular in California, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, and Ohio. In the past 5 years the name Niles has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Niles (2023)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
PA | 6 | |
CA | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1897 | 5 |
1900 | 5 |
1910 | 6 |
1912 | 7 |
1913 | 23 |
1914 | 15 |
1915 | 16 |
1916 | 26 |
1917 | 38 |
1918 | 29 |
1919 | 23 |
1920 | 27 |
1921 | 31 |
1922 | 24 |
1923 | 25 |
1924 | 24 |
1925 | 25 |
1926 | 22 |
1927 | 27 |
1928 | 35 |
1929 | 42 |
1930 | 29 |
1931 | 43 |
1932 | 29 |
1933 | 30 |
1934 | 30 |
1935 | 27 |
1936 | 26 |
1937 | 33 |
1938 | 33 |
1939 | 28 |
1940 | 35 |
1941 | 35 |
1942 | 55 |
1943 | 46 |
1944 | 44 |
1945 | 36 |
1946 | 37 |
1947 | 44 |
1948 | 55 |
1949 | 47 |
1950 | 57 |
1951 | 45 |
1952 | 44 |
1953 | 42 |
1954 | 32 |
1955 | 42 |
1956 | 38 |
1957 | 30 |
1958 | 31 |
1959 | 29 |
1960 | 35 |
1961 | 34 |
1962 | 31 |
1963 | 28 |
1964 | 29 |
1965 | 28 |
1966 | 22 |
1967 | 21 |
1968 | 14 |
1969 | 30 |
1970 | 21 |
1971 | 24 |
1972 | 18 |
1973 | 35 |
1974 | 38 |
1975 | 45 |
1976 | 33 |
1977 | 23 |
1978 | 38 |
1979 | 42 |
1980 | 37 |
1981 | 38 |
1982 | 33 |
1983 | 48 |
1984 | 31 |
1985 | 45 |
1986 | 46 |
1987 | 47 |
1988 | 45 |
1989 | 53 |
1990 | 45 |
1991 | 48 |
1992 | 43 |
1993 | 42 |
1994 | 57 |
1995 | 70 |
1996 | 49 |
1997 | 56 |
1998 | 80 |
1999 | 68 |
2000 | 64 |
2001 | 54 |
2002 | 41 |
2003 | 41 |
2004 | 43 |
2005 | 36 |
2006 | 38 |
2007 | 50 |
2008 | 37 |
2009 | 47 |
2010 | 29 |
2011 | 41 |
2012 | 45 |
2013 | 39 |
2014 | 53 |
2015 | 49 |
2016 | 54 |
2017 | 65 |
2018 | 49 |
2019 | 64 |
2020 | 70 |
2021 | 64 |
2022 | 59 |
2023 | 53 |
2024 | 38 |