Pilar

girlSpanishChristian

Pilar is a Christian girl name of Spanish origin, meaning “Pillar”.

MeaningPillar
GenderGirl
OriginSpanish
Pronunciationpee-LAR
TraditionChristian
Used inSpain, Argentina, Chile, Philippines

Meaning and origin of Pilar

Pilar means 'pillar' in Spanish and is short for María del Pilar, 'Mary of the Pillar'. According to Spanish tradition, the Virgin Mary appeared to the Apostle James on a pillar of jasper by the Ebro River at Zaragoza while he was preaching in Spain. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar now stands on the site. Spain's national holiday on 12 October coincides with her feast.

Is Pilar a Christian name?

Pilar is a Marian name honouring Our Lady of the Pillar, patroness of Spain and of the Hispanic world, venerated in Zaragoza.

How popular is Pilar?

A traditional Spanish name, especially strong in Aragon, and used across Latin America.

Gifts with the name Pilar

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Spellings and variants of Pilar

PiliPilaricaMari Pili

Names similar to Pilar

More Christian girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Pilar mean?

Pilar means 'Pillar'. It is of Spanish origin.

Is Pilar a Christian name?

Pilar is a Marian name honouring Our Lady of the Pillar, patroness of Spain and of the Hispanic world, venerated in Zaragoza.

How do you pronounce Pilar?

Pilar is pronounced pee-LAR.

Is Pilar a boy or girl name?

Pilar is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.