Silas
Silas is a boy name of Latin origin meaning “Of the forest”, pronounced SY-lus. It ranked #71 in the United States in 2025, given to 4,639 babies, and peaked at #71 in 2025. Common nicknames: Si, Sy.
How popular is Silas in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Silas mean, and where does it come from?
Silas is derived from the Latin name Silvanus, meaning "of the forest" or "wood-dweller," from "silva" (forest). In the New Testament, Silas was a companion of the apostle Paul on his missionary journeys, also known as Silvanus. The name was used by the Puritans and later featured in George Eliot's 1861 novel Silas Marner. After falling into relative obscurity, Silas experienced a dramatic revival in the 21st century, boosted in part by celebrity usage — Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel named their son Silas in 2015. Its earthy, timeless sound resonates with modern parents.
How is Silas used around the world?
Silas is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 4+ international variants.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Silas?
Famous People Named Silas
- Silas Weir Mitchell — American actor
- Silas Marner — fictional character by George Eliot
- Silas Timberlake — son of Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel
Similar Names to Silas
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Sibling Name Ideas for Silas
Looking for names that pair well with Silas? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Silas mean?
Silas is a boy name of Latin origin meaning "Of the forest." Silas is derived from the Latin name Silvanus, meaning "of the forest" or "wood-dweller," from "silva" (forest). In the New Testament, Silas was a companion of the apostle Paul on his missionary journeys, also known as Silvanus.
How do you pronounce Silas?
Silas is pronounced SY-lus. Common variations include Silvanus, Sylas, Silvano.
Is Silas a boy name?
Yes, Silas is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Si, Sy.