Ilian

Ilian is a masculine first name that is considered a Swedish variant of the name Ägidius, a Germanized form of Aegidius. Translated into German, the name carries the meaning 'the shield bearer'.

What does the name Ilian mean?

The name Ilian has its roots in the ancient Greek word aigís (αἰγῐ́ς), which means 'goat skin', 'shield of Zeus', and 'cloak of Zeus'. These terms originate from Greek mythology, where the cloak or shield of Zeus is described as such. Alternatively, the origin may also lie in the ancient Greek aigílōps (αἰγίλωψ), meaning 'the oak' or 'the goat grass'. Furthermore, Ilian (Илиян/Илиан) is also a Bulgarian and Romanian form of Elijah. In Arabic, Ilian is associated with 'superiority', implying spiritual greatness. In Hebrew, the name means 'the Lord is my God'.

Where does the name Ilian come from?

The first name Ilian has its roots in ancient Greek and means 'the shield bearer'. The ancient Greek terms aigís (αἰγῐ́ς) and aigílōps (αἰγίλωψ) stand for 'goat skin', 'shield of Zeus', 'cloak of Zeus', 'the oak', and 'the goat grass'. The name is primarily used in Swedish.

How do you pronounce Ilian?

The pronunciation of the name Ilian is three syllables and emphasizes the vowels. It is typically pronounced as 'I-li-an' [ˈiːli̯an], starting with a long I sound that conveys brightness. The middle syllable flows smoothly into the open ending, and the final n provides a calm conclusion. Ilian presents itself as an elegant and modern name, characterized by clear lines and gentle dynamics.

When is the name day of Ilian?

Ilian celebrates his name day on September 1.

Popularity

In Germany, the name Ilian enjoys great popularity and currently ranks 518th on the list of the most common male first names. Its best placement was in 2021, when it reached 430th place. Over the last ten years, Ilian has been chosen as a first name about 890 times, securing it the 590th place in the ten-year statistics. From 2010 to 2024, it ranks 608th.

Nicknames & pet names

Ili / Iljuscha / Illi / Illiano / Illy

Similar first names

Famous people

• Ilian Bergala (French actor)
• Ilian Chavdarov (footballer from Bulgaria)
• Ilian Djevelekov (Bulgarian film director)
• Ilian Evtimov (Bulgarian basketball player)
• Ilian Garnet (American musician)
• Ilian Iliev (football player from Bulgaria)
• Ilian Kiriakov (Bulgarian football player)
• Ilian Micanski (football player)
• Ilian Perez (American badminton player)
• Ilian Simeonov (Bulgarian footballer)
• Ilian Simeonow (actor from Germany)
• Ilian Stoyanov (footballer from Bulgaria)
• Ilian Vassilev (Bulgarian writer)