Gill is a name of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic word "Gilla," which means "servant" or "devotee." It is believed to have been used as a personal name in Ireland since at least the Middle Ages. The name Gill was traditionally given to boys and is still more commonly associated with males today.
The name Gill has a strong connection to Irish history and culture. In the past, it was often used as a prefix for Christian names, such as Gilla Crist (meaning "servant of Christ") or Gilla Mo Choli (meaning "servant of my column," referring to Saint Columba). Some famous historical figures with the name Gill include Gill MacArtain, a 15th-century Irish chieftain, and Gillapatrick, an 8th-century Irish saint.
Over time, the name Gill has evolved and adapted. In some cases, it is used as a short form of other names, such as Gillian or Gillies. Today, Gill is still used as a given name in Ireland and around the world, but it is less common than it once was. Despite its decline in popularity, Gill remains an important part of Irish naming traditions and continues to be associated with Ireland's rich history and culture.
In conclusion, Gill is a historic Irish name that carries a unique meaning and connection to Irish heritage. While it may not be as widely used today, the name Gill holds significant value for those who choose to honor its origins and legacy.
The name Gill has a unique history of usage in the United States, with trends fluctuating over time. Between 1884 and 2006, there were a total of 1217 births registered for this name.
During the early 20th century, the popularity of the name Gill was quite modest, with fewer than ten births per year between 1913 and 1936. However, the trend began to shift in the late 1930s, reaching a peak in the post-World War II era.
In 1947, there were 30 births registered for the name Gill, marking an unprecedented high point during this period. This popularity continued into the early 1950s, with consistently high numbers of births each year - reaching as high as 44 in 1956 and 42 in 1951.
However, much like many other names, Gill's popularity began to decline from the mid-1950s onwards. By the early 1970s, the number of births had dropped significantly, with fewer than ten births registered each year between 1973 and 1984.
Despite this decline in popularity, Gill has managed to maintain a steady presence in recent decades. Between 1990 and 2006, there were at least five births registered for the name Gill each year, indicating that it remains a viable option for parents looking for a distinctive yet classic name for their child.
Overall, while Gill may not be one of the most popular names in terms of overall usage, its unique history and steady presence over time make it an intriguing choice for those interested in uncommon and meaningful names.