Everything about the name MILLS

Meaning, origin, history

Mills is a unique and distinctive given name of English origin. It is derived from the occupational surname Mills, which itself comes from the Old English word "mylen," meaning "mill." This surname was originally given to individuals who worked at or owned a mill, such as a grain miller.

The name Mills has a rich history dating back to medieval times in England. As an occupational surname, it would have been used for generations within families whose livelihood depended on the operation of mills. Over time, Mills evolved from being purely an occupational surname to also becoming a given name, particularly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

While Mills is not among the most popular names today, it has made appearances in literature and pop culture throughout history. For example, it is the first name of character Mills Lane, a fictional judge from the novel "One L" by Scott Turow. Additionally, the surname Mills has been shared by notable figures such as American actor John Mills and British musician Kim Deal.

In conclusion, Mills is an uncommon yet historically significant given name with roots in medieval England. Its origins trace back to the Old English word for mill, and it carries with it a sense of industry and craftsmanship. Although not widely used today, Mills remains a distinctive choice for parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their child.

See also

Popularity of the name MILLS since 1880

Birth evolution

Popularity analysis

The statistics show that the number of babies named Mills in the United States has varied over the past decade. From 2013 to 2023, there were a total of 96 births with this name. The year with the highest number of births was 2022, with 21 babies named Mills. However, the previous year, 2023, saw a slight decrease in popularity, with 19 babies receiving this name at birth. It is interesting to note that there were no recorded births with the name Mills in some years during this period (2016 and 2017). Overall, these statistics provide insight into the fluctuations of naming trends over time.