Alternatives to Silas
- Vallis
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"from Wales"Description:
Intriguing way to signal Welsh ancestry; more unusual than Wallace.
- Solace
Origin:
English word nameDescription:
A rare unisex word/virtue name that is currently given to around 10 babies of each gender per year in the US. It could make for an unexpected route to bright, easygoing nickname Sol (or trendy nickname Ace).
- Silvio
Origin:
Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese form of SilviusMeaning:
"wood, forest"Description:
A shiny and sylvan choice, this sleek yet spirited name feels familiar yet is rarely used.
- Clovis
Origin:
Teutonic, French, early form of Ludwig or LouisDescription:
An aromatic, unconventional name.
- Saleh
Description:
Saleh is a masculine name of Arabic origin, derived from the root 's-l-h' meaning 'righteousness,' 'goodness,' or 'piety.' It carries significant religious importance in Islam as Saleh (صالح) was the name of a prophet mentioned in the Quran. The name embodies virtuous qualities and moral integrity, making it a meaningful choice across Muslim communities worldwide. Particularly common in Middle Eastern, North African, and South Asian countries, Saleh has grown increasingly familiar in Western nations with diverse populations. The name is appreciated for its spiritual significance, pleasing sound, and straightforward pronunciation. As global cultural exchange continues, Saleh has gained recognition beyond Islamic communities while retaining its deep connection to religious heritage and ethical values.
- Lumis
Origin:
English surnameMeaning:
"from the place by the pool"Description:
Also spelt Loomis, this locational English surname comes from Lomax (Lumhalghs), near Bury in Lancashire. Beyoncé's maternal grandfather, Lumis Albert Beyincé, is a notable bearer of the name.
- Lauris
Description:
Lauris is a masculine name with Baltic and Latin roots. In Latvia and Lithuania, it's a traditional male name derived from the Latvian word "lauris" meaning "crowned with laurel" or simply "laurel." The laurel plant has historically symbolized victory, honor, and achievement since ancient Greek and Roman times. In Roman tradition, laurel wreaths crowned victors and poets. The name may also be connected to the Latin name Laurentius (Lawrence), meaning "from Laurentum" or also associated with laurel. Lauris has remained moderately popular in Baltic countries while being relatively uncommon elsewhere. It offers a distinctive yet accessible option with classical roots and strong symbolic associations with triumph and artistic achievement.
- Ilias
Origin:
Greek, from HebrewMeaning:
"Yahweh is God"Description:
The Greek form of Elijah.
- Julias
Description:
Julias is a masculine name that appears to be a variant spelling of Julius or possibly Julian. With Roman and Latin origins, the traditional Julius derives from the ancient Roman family name 'Julius,' potentially meaning 'downy-bearded' or 'youthful.' This particular spelling is uncommon, offering a slightly softer ending than Julius while maintaining its classical dignity. The name carries rich historical associations, most notably with Julius Caesar and the Julian calendar. While rare in contemporary usage, Julias preserves the scholarly and imperial connotations of its more common variants. The subtle spelling difference creates a distinctive option for parents attracted to classical names with a slight twist.
- Silvius
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"wood, forest"Description:
With the rise of ancient Roman names, the now-obscure Silvius may be rediscovered. Sleek and silvery, Silvius was the name of several legendary kings and an early saint. It survives in the contemporary world in its Spanish and Italian form Silvio, used for the character played by Steven Van Zandt on The Sopranos, while its traditional form appears in the Shakespeare play, As You Like It.
- Cylas
Description:
Cylas is a modern masculine variation of the ancient Greek name Silas, which means 'forest' or 'woodland.' The distinctive spelling with 'C' instead of 'S' emerged in recent decades as parents sought unique twists on traditional names. While Silas has biblical connections as a companion of Paul in the New Testament, Cylas offers a contemporary update while maintaining the name's historical essence. The name has seen increasing usage in the 21st century, particularly in the United States, though it remains relatively uncommon. Cylas combines accessibility with uniqueness, featuring a strong sound that balances traditional masculine qualities with modern appeal.
- Silvian
Origin:
Dutch, German, Romanian, EnglishMeaning:
"of the forest"Description:
Modern form of Latin Silvanus, and an appealing -ian ending option if Julian or Adrian feel too popular for you.
- Styles
Origin:
English surnameMeaning:
"steep hill, steps"Description:
A cool surname name made famous by One Direction band member Harry Styles.
- Salnis
Origin:
LatvianMeaning:
"frost"Description:
Rare Latvian name with ties to winter weather.
- Phinneas
Description:
Phinneas is a masculine name with Hebrew origins, serving as a variant spelling of Phineas or Phinehas. The biblical Phinehas was the grandson of Aaron and known for his zealousness. The name is thought to mean 'oracle' or possibly 'mouth of brass' in Hebrew. Phinneas gained some literary recognition through characters like Phineas Finn in Anthony Trollope's novels and Phineas Fletcher in Jules Verne's 'Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea.' This alternative spelling with double 'n' adds a distinctive touch while maintaining the name's historical gravitas. Though never extremely common, the name has experienced modest renewed interest among parents seeking traditional yet uncommon names with literary connections.
- Nyles
Origin:
Spelling variation of NilesDescription:
As Miles begat Myles, so Niles has begotten Nyles, with the name of the effete brother played by David Hyde Pierce on Frasier morphing into Andy Samberg's cool guy lead character in Palm Springs. While there were 63 boys named Niles and 37 called Nyles in the US in 2021, we predict this name will be coming soon to a baby name popularity list near you.
- Cylus
Description:
Cylus is a modern masculine name with uncertain etymology, though it may be a variant spelling of 'Silas' or derived from the Greek element 'kylos' relating to circular motion. The name has a contemporary feel with its distinctive spelling using 'C' and 'y'. Cylus embodies the trend toward names that sound traditional but feature creative spellings. It might also draw inspiration from scientific or technological terminology, with 'cy' appearing in words related to cycles, systems, and cybernetics. The name has gained some modest usage in recent decades, particularly in North America, appealing to parents seeking unique yet accessible options. Cylus carries a strong, modern sound while maintaining a connection to naming traditions through its syllabic structure.
- Sylvian
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"of the forest"Description:
Variant of the more popular Sylvain
- Wallis
Description:
Wallis is a masculine name of Germanic origin functioning as both a given name and surname. Derived from the Old Germanic elements 'wald' meaning 'rule' or 'power' and possibly connected to Wales or 'foreigner' in Old English, it carries connotations of leadership. The name gained notable recognition through Wallis Simpson, the American divorcée for whom King Edward VIII abdicated the British throne. As a first name, Wallis has remained uncommon but distinctive, appealing to parents seeking a sophisticated name with historical resonance. The name projects a refined, somewhat aristocratic quality while maintaining a strong masculine image. Its rarity makes it an individual choice that avoids trendiness while still being recognizable.
- Seeley
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"blessed, happy"Description:
Seeley is a Medieval surname with a happy, fortunate meaning.