Silas
Silas is a Christian boy name of Greek, from Latin or Aramaic origin, meaning “Of the forest (debated)”.
| Meaning | Of the forest (debated) |
|---|---|
| Gender | Boy |
| Origin | Greek, from Latin or Aramaic |
| Pronunciation | SY-lus |
| Tradition | Christian |
| Used in | United States, Germany, Denmark, United Kingdom |
Meaning and origin of Silas
Silas is a short Greek form of Silvanus, linked to Latin silva, 'forest', the name of the Roman woodland god. Some scholars instead connect it with the Aramaic form of Saul, 'asked for'. In the Acts of the Apostles, Silas travels with Paul on his second missionary journey and is imprisoned with him at Philippi (Acts 16). George Eliot's novel Silas Marner kept it familiar, and it has become popular again in recent years.
Is Silas a Christian name?
Yes, Silas is a New Testament name: Paul's companion in Acts, usually identified with the Silvanus of Paul's letters and 1 Peter. Some churches honour him as a saint.
How popular is Silas?
Increasingly popular in the United States and much of northern Europe.
Gifts with the name Silas
- Silas name necklaces & bracelets (Amazon)
- Personalised Silas baby gifts (Amazon)
- Christian baby gifts & books (Amazon)
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Spellings and variants of Silas
Names similar to Silas
More Christian boy names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Silas mean?
Silas means 'Of the forest (debated)'. It is of Greek, from Latin or Aramaic origin.
Is Silas a Christian name?
Yes, Silas is a New Testament name: Paul's companion in Acts, usually identified with the Silvanus of Paul's letters and 1 Peter. Some churches honour him as a saint.
How do you pronounce Silas?
Silas is pronounced SY-lus.
Is Silas a boy or girl name?
Silas is usually a boy name.