Miles

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Miles

Gender Boy
Origin Greek
Letters 5
Syllables 2
Pronunciation m-ahy-l-z

Miles, which has 5 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of Greek origin.

Meaning of Miles

Soldier

Miles is a masculine given name of Latin origin meaning "soldier". It is derived from the Germanic word for "soldier" or "mercenary".

Save
Rate:
Be the first to rate!
Meaning Soldier
Origin Greek
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #37 in 2024 Steady
Rarity (US) Popular (Top 50)
Era Modern (peaked 2024)

Background & History of The Name Miles

The name Miles is of German origin and has a variety of meanings and historical significance. It is derived from the Germanic name "Milo," which means "mild" or "gracious." In Latin, "miles" translates to "soldier" or "warrior." The name gained popularity particularly due to its association with two notable historical figures: Saint Miles, a bishop known for his piety and charity, and King Milesius, a legendary king of Spain who led his people to settle in Ireland.

Miles is a gender-neutral name, and its popularity has been steadily increasing in recent years. It became popular in the United States during the 19th century and continues to be widely used today. The name has a distinct charm, with a stylish and timeless appeal. Its simplicity allows it to complement a wide range of last names and middle names.

The name Miles has been embraced by various well-known figures in the fields of arts, sports, and entertainment. Miles Davis, one of the most influential jazz musicians of all time, brought the name into the spotlight with his innovative playing style and compositions. Actor Miles Teller has also contributed to the name's popularity through his successful performances in movies such as "Whiplash" and "The Spectacular Now."

Parents often choose the name Miles for its strong and confident sound. It evokes a sense of determination and resilience, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a name with substance. Furthermore, the name's versatility allows for a range of nickname options, including the affectionate "Milo" or the playful "Miley."

Overall, the name Miles carries a rich history and offers a timeless appeal. Its Germanic and Latin roots, combined with its association with notable individuals, have contributed to its popularity and enduring charm.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Miles over the years.

Check Initials

See what initials Miles would create with your last name.

Nicknames

Common nicknames and short forms for Miles.

Save This Name

Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.

Create Free Account

Partner Matching

Rate names with your partner and find the ones you both love.

Learn More

Sibling Matcher

Find names that pair well with your existing children's names.

Find Sibling Names