Gilliam is a unique and distinctive given name, predominantly used for males. It has been popularized by various notable figures throughout history and media. The name originates from the Latin 'Gillius', meaning 'joyful' or 'jovial'. Gilliam can also be found in different spellings such as Gilliam, Guillaume, or Guillermo, reflecting its multicultural presence.
In literature, Gilliam is known for its association with renowned authors like Gilliam (sic) Flynn, the American novelist famous for his thrillers "Gone Girl" and "Sharp Objects". In cinema, Gilliam stands out through the work of British film director Terry Gilliam, co-founder of the Monty Python comedy group. His notable films include "Time Bandits", "Brazil", and "The Adventures of Baron Munchausen".
The name Gilliam has also made appearances in popular culture beyond literature and film. For instance, it is the first name of American basketball player Glenn 'Gilliam' Davis and French football manager Gilliam Grenier.
Overall, Gilliam is a fascinating name with a rich historical and cultural background. Its unique sound and diverse associations make it a distinctive choice for parents seeking an uncommon yet meaningful name for their child.
The name Gilliam experienced variable popularity over the years, with notable peaks in certain decades. The 1920s saw a significant trend of the name, particularly with a high of 9 births in 1920 and another peak of 8 births in 1927. However, from the late 1930s to the mid-1950s, there was a notable decline in the number of babies named Gilliam. It wasn't until the late 1950s that the name began to regain some popularity again, with peaks in 1957 and 1959. After these years, the name's usage seems to have dwindled, with only a handful of births recorded in more recent decades like 1971 and 1988. Overall, Gilliam was not a particularly common name throughout history, with a total of 147 babies named Gilliam over this period.