Giles
“From the Greek Aigidios, meaning 'shield-bearer' or 'protected by a shield.' Saint Giles, a 7th-century hermit and patron saint of the disabled and lepers, gave this name religious significance across medieval Europe. The name feels both scholarly and gentle—intellectual without being pretentious, with a quiet strength rooted in Christian tradition.”
Giles is a boy's name of Greek origin. From the Greek Aigidios, meaning 'shield-bearer' or 'protected by a shield.' Saint Giles, a 7th-century hermit and patron saint of the disabled and lepers, gave this name religious significance across medieval Europe. The name feels both scholarly and gentle—intellectual without being pretentious, with a quiet strength rooted in Christian tradition.
Medieval religious heritage through Saint Giles; particularly established in English and Scottish traditions.
The name Giles has roots in the Greek language tradition. It derives from elements meaning “From the Greek Aigidios, meaning 'shield-bearer' or 'protected by a shield”.
Cultural context: Medieval religious heritage through Saint Giles; particularly established in English and Scottish traditions.
As a boy's name, Giles carries the character of its Greek heritage while remaining a distinctive and uncommon choice for parents seeking something unique.
Giles Deacon
BusinessBritishAvant-garde fashion designer, haute couture innovator
A renowned British fashion designer known for his avant-garde designs and work with luxury fashion houses, creating bold and innovative clothing collections.
1969 – present
Giles Fraser
otherBritishAnglican clergyman, St Paul's Cathedral canon, theologian
A British Anglican clergyman, journalist, and broadcaster who has served as a Canon of St Paul's Cathedral and is known for his work on philosophy, theology, and social issues.
1967 – present
Giles Brandreth
PoliticsBritishConservative MP, author, broadcaster, royal historian
A British Conservative politician and author who has served as Member of Parliament and held various ministerial positions, known for his prolific writing and media appearances.
1948 – present
Giles Corey
HistoricalAmericanSalem witch trials martyr, pressed to death for refusing to plea
A farmer accused during the Salem witch trials who became a martyr for justice when he was pressed to death with stones in 1692 rather than enter a plea, allowing his heirs to inherit his estate and avoiding conviction.
1611 – 1692
What does the name Giles mean?
Giles means "From the Greek Aigidios, meaning 'shield-bearer' or 'protected by a shield.' Saint Giles, a 7th-century hermit and patron saint of the disabled and lepers, gave this name religious significance across medieval Europe. The name feels both scholarly and gentle—intellectual without being pretentious, with a quiet strength rooted in Christian tradition.", and is of Greek origin.
Is Giles a boy name?
Giles is primarily used as a boy's name.
What is the origin of the name Giles?
Giles is of Greek origin. Medieval religious heritage through Saint Giles; particularly established in English and Scottish traditions.