Silas: Meaning, origin and popularity
Pronounced SY-lus · 2 syllables
Silas means “of the forest”, from Latin and Greek.
From Latin Silas, from Ancient Greek (Silas), from Aramaic (s ila), cognate of Hebrew (sa ul, “Saul”). Doublet of Saul.
- Meaning
- of the forest
- Origin
- Latin, Greek
- Pronunciation
- SY-lus
- US rank (2025)
- #71
- US babies a year
- about 4,179 (2021–2025)
- Peak
- around 2020
- Style
- Rising, Biblical, Literary
How popular is Silas?
Silas was the #71 name in the US in 2025, given to 4,646 babies. It’s rising: up 47% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 2020.
Around the world
| Country | Rank |
|---|---|
| United States | #71 |
| England & Wales | #707 |
| France | #464 |
| Norway | #102 |
| Canada | #182 |
| Australia | #164 |
How old are people named Silas?
Half of US adults named Silas are older than 27; most are between 18 and 80. (Estimated from US births by year and life tables.)
Names like Silas
Chosen by the same families or with a similar style and era.
On these lists
Questions about Silas
What does the name Silas mean?
Silas means “of the forest”. It comes from Latin and Greek.
How do you pronounce Silas?
Silas is pronounced SY-lus.
How popular is the name Silas?
Silas was the #71 name in the US in 2025, given to 4,646 babies. It’s rising: up 47% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 2020.
How old are people named Silas?
Half of US adults named Silas are older than 27. Most are between 18 and 80.