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Niles Boy

Popularity: #886 · Trend: ↘ Falling

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)

StateBirthsShare
PA 6
55%
CA 5
45%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18975
19005
19106
19127
191323
191415
191516
191626
191738
191829
191923
192027
192131
192224
192325
192424
192525
192622
192727
192835
192942
193029
193143
193229
193330
193430
193527
193626
193733
193833
193928
194035
194135
194255
194346
194444
194536
194637
194744
194855
194947
195057
195145
195244
195342
195432
195542
195638
195730
195831
195929
196035
196134
196231
196328
196429
196528
196622
196721
196814
196930
197021
197124
197218
197335
197438
197545
197633
197723
197838
197942
198037
198138
198233
198348
198431
198545
198646
198747
198845
198953
199045
199148
199243
199342
199457
199570
199649
199756
199880
199968
200064
200154
200241
200341
200443
200536
200638
200750
200837
200947
201029
201141
201245
201339
201453
201549
201654
201765
201849
201964
202070
202164
202259
202353
202438