Skip to main content
Christian Name Meaning & Origin Guide

Hilary

Shining, bright, sunny

Pronunciation: HIL-uh-ree (/ˈhɪləri/)

Girl Name Biblical origin Popularity 60
Meaning
Shining, bright, sunny
Origin
Biblical
Lucky Number
7
Lucky Day
Sunday
Lucky Stone
Topaz
Life Path
3
Popularity Score
60
Language
English, Greek, Latin
Lucky Colors: GoldYellow

What does Hilary mean?

Derived from the Greek word 'hilare', meaning 'shining, bright, sunny'. In early Christian tradition, the name Hilary was given to those who were joyful and cheerful, possibly due to the association with the radiant sun.

Hilary in other languages & scripts

Hebrew
הילרי
שם הילרי מתורגם כ cheerful או happiest אחד
Greek
Ιλάριος
Ο Ιλάριος σημαίνει χαρούμενος ή ευχάριστος
Latin
Hilary
Hilary means cheerful or glad
English
Hilary
Hilary means cheerful or happy one

How to pronounce Hilary

English pronunciation
HIL-uh-ree
IPA notation
/ˈhɪləri/

Numerology & personality

Expressive, artistic, and sociable, but can be highly emotional and sensitive.

Associated Traits
CompassionateGentleRadiantS = Sensitive

Spiritual & cultural context

Symbol of joy, light, and hope.

The name Hilary has been popular among Christians due to its origins in ancient Greece, where it meant 'shining, bright, sunny'. Over time, it became associated with joy and cheerfulness due to its link to the sun, and was often given to those who embodied these qualities. The name has been borne by numerous saints throughout history, including St. Hilary of Poitiers, a renowned theologian and bishop, and St. Hilary of Arles, a beloved bishop known for his miraculous healings.

Scriptural & traditional roots

Saint connection: Saint Hilary of Poitiers

Popularity of Hilary by region

Region Country Score Year
United States US 62 2024
Brazil BR 55 2024
France FR 49 2024

Names similar to Hilary

Frequently asked questions about Hilary

What does Hilary mean?
The name Hilary is derived from the Greek word 'hilare', meaning 'shining, bright, sunny'.
Is Hilary a Greek name?
Yes, the name Hilary is of Greek origin.
Is Hilary a Christianity name?
Yes, in early Christian tradition, the name Hilary was given to those who were joyful and cheerful.
How to pronounce Hilary?
The name Hilary is pronounced hih-LAH-ree.
Is Hilary popular today?
While not currently in the top 100 names in the US, the name Hilary has a strong following among those seeking names with a rich cultural and religious background.
What is the origin of Hilary?
The name Hilary is of Greek origin, derived from the Greek word 'hilare', meaning 'shining, bright, sunny'.