Meaning and Origin of the Name Gillies
The name Gillies is steeped in Scottish history and tradition, representing a unique and meaningful part of Scottish culture. The name Gillies is derived from the Gaelic “Mac Gille Iosa”, which translates to “son of the servant of Jesus”. This name was traditionally used to signify those who were followers or servants of early Christian leaders.
History of the Gillies
“Gille Iossa” was originally the name of a medieval Scottish chief who was also known as Malise mac Gilleain (1235-1300), who was the head of what would become the Maclean clan. His name has been variously rendered as Gille-Iosa, Maulis, Maolisa, mhaoilisa, Maoiliosa, and Gillise MacGillean. Both “Maol” and “Gille” mean “servant of” in Scots Gaelic, while “Iosa” means “Jesus.” “Malise” is an Anglicized version of Mac Gilleain’s first name.
Malise assumed leadership of the clan in 1263 when the Scottish-Norwegian War was at its height. He and his clan fought under the command of the Scottish king, Alexander III. At the Battle of Largs, his leadership and bravery so impressed his foes that the Icelandic historian Sturla Þórðarson wrote about him in his account of King Haakon Haakonson, which he finished in the late 1260s.
Popularity of the Name
Gillies is not as common as some other Scottish names, but it holds a special place in Scottish heritage. Historically, it was used as a surname, and its use as a given name has become less frequent over time. However, those who bear the name Gillies carry with them a sense of historical and cultural significance.
The popularity of Gillies as a first name is low, but it is a relatively common surname or last name. In 2023, Gillies was not in the top 100 baby boys names in Scotland.
Variations
Gillies has five variant forms: Ghilles, Ghillies, Gilles, Gillis, and Gilliss.
Famous people called Gilles
Although the name Gillies is rare, it has been carried by several notable individuals. For instance:
- Gillies MacKinnon, a renowned Scottish film director known for his work on films like “Regeneration” and “Hideous Kinky”.
- Edwin A. Gillies, a notable Canadian politician who served as a member of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario.
Why choose the name?
The name Gillies reflects the deeply rooted religious and cultural history of Scotland. It is a name that signifies devotion, faith, and a connection to one’s heritage. While it may not be widely used today, the name carries with it a strong sense of identity and pride.
In conclusion, the name Gillies is more than just a name; it is a symbol of Scottish history and tradition. Its unique meaning and historical significance make it a distinctive and meaningful choice for those looking to connect with their Scottish roots.
Useful Resources
- See other Scottish boys’ names on our website