Ilia is a unique and distinctive name of Greek origin. It is derived from the Greek word 'Ἰλιάς' which translates to 'of Ilium'. Ilium, also known as Troy, was an ancient city in modern-day Turkey that played a significant role in Greek mythology.
The name Ilia is often associated with the Trojan War, a ten-year siege of the city of Troy by the Greeks. The most famous account of this war is found in Homer's epic poem 'The Iliad', from which the name Ilia may have originated.
Historically, the name Ilia has been more commonly used among females than males. However, it is not exclusively gendered and can be used for both boys and girls. Despite its Greek origins, Ilia has gained popularity in various cultures around the world, particularly in Russia where it is considered one of the most popular names for girls.
In terms of meaning, Ilia is often associated with strength, courage, and resilience, perhaps due to its connection to the legendary city of Troy and its epic war. However, it's important to note that the meaning of a name can vary depending on cultural and personal interpretations.
Overall, Ilia is an uncommon yet captivating name with a rich history and a unique origin story. Its meaning may vary, but it generally evokes images of strength and courage, making it a fitting choice for those seeking a distinctive name with deep roots in mythology and history.
Ilia is a unique and uncommon name that has seen varying levels of popularity over the years in the United States. Between 1998 and 2023, there were a total of 176 babies named Ilia born in the US.
The year with the highest number of births for the name Ilia was 2023, with an impressive 16 newborns sharing this name. This is more than double the number of births recorded in any other single year during this period.
Interestingly, there were two years that also saw a high number of babies named Ilia - both 2017 and 2018 had 12 births each. This indicates that there may have been a brief trend towards choosing the name Ilia around these years.
On the other hand, some years saw relatively few Ilia births. For example, in 1999, 2000, 2010, and 2020, only five babies each were given this name.
Despite its ups and downs in popularity over time, the name Ilia continues to be chosen by parents who appreciate its distinctive sound and perhaps its underlying meaning or cultural significance. It's also worth noting that while it may not rank among the most popular names in any given year, being a relatively uncommon name can sometimes make Ilia an attractive choice for parents looking for something unique and memorable for their child.