Cilice

Boy Name
Origin:greek
Pronunciation:/ˈsɪlɪs/

Cilice: a male name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Kílikas (Κίλικας) Kílix (Κῐ́λῐξ),” meaning “Cilicia, a region in Asia Minor". It derives from the Greek word "Kílikas > Kílix".

Cilice has maintained its appeal as a masculine name in modern times while preserving its Greek roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Kílikas (Κίλικας) Kílix (Κῐ́λῐξ),” meaning “Cilicia, a region in Asia Minor" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.

Quick Facts About Cilice

Quick facts about Cilice
OriginGreek
GenderBoy name
PopularityModerately popular

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Kílikas (Κίλικας) Kílix (Κῐ́λῐξ),” meaning “Cilicia, a region in Asia Minor.” Cilix was, according to Greek mythology, a son of Agenor and Telephassa or Argiope and brother of Cadmus, Phoenix, and Europa. When Zeus carried off Europa, Agenor sent his three sons out to find her, telling them not to return until they find her. The search was unsuccessful. Cilix eventually settled down in Asia Minor. The land was called Cilicia after him.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

Kílikas > Kílix

How to Pronounce Cilice

Cilice is pronounced /ˈsɪlɪs/(English)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Cil-ic-e
  2. Say it like: "SEEHLEEHS"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Cilice is predominantly used in italian speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.

italian
Frequently Asked Questions About Cilice
What does the name Cilice mean?
Cilice means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Kílikas (Κίλικας) Kílix (Κῐ́λῐξ),” meaning “Cilicia, a region in Asia Minor.” Cilix was, according to Greek mythology, a son of Agenor and Telephassa or Argiope and brother of Cadmus, Phoenix, and Europa. When Zeus carried off Europa, Agenor sent his three sons out to find her, telling them not to return until they find her. The search was unsuccessful. Cilix eventually settled down in Asia Minor. The land was called Cilicia after him.". The name comes from Kílikas > Kílix. In its original form, the name derives from Kílikas (Κίλικας) Kílix (Κῐ́λῐξ). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Cilice for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Kílikas (Κίλικας) Kílix (Κῐ́λῐξ),” meaning “Cilicia, a region in Asia Minor.” Cilix was, according to Greek mythology, a son of Agenor and Telephassa or Argiope and brother of Cadmus, Phoenix, and Europa. When Zeus carried off Europa, Agenor sent his three sons out to find her, telling them not to return until they find her. The search was unsuccessful. Cilix eventually settled down in Asia Minor. The land was called Cilicia after him." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Cilice's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like GREEK MYTHOLOGY (MINOR FIGURES), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Cilice?
Cilice is a greek name. The name traces back to Kílikas > Kílix. The original form Kílikas (Κίλικας) Kílix (Κῐ́λῐξ) shows the name's roots in its native language. The name remains closely tied to italian naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Kílikas (Κίλικας) Kílix (Κῐ́λῐξ),” meaning “Cilicia, a region in Asia Minor.” Cilix was, according to Greek mythology, a son of Agenor and Telephassa or Argiope and brother of Cadmus, Phoenix, and Europa. When Zeus carried off Europa, Agenor sent his three sons out to find her, telling them not to return until they find her. The search was unsuccessful. Cilix eventually settled down in Asia Minor. The land was called Cilicia after him." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Cilice a boy or girl name?
Cilice is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In greek tradition, Cilice has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Kílikas (Κίλικας) Kílix (Κῐ́λῐξ),” meaning “Cilicia, a region in Asia Minor.” Cilix was, according to Greek mythology, a son of Agenor and Telephassa or Argiope and brother of Cadmus, Phoenix, and Europa. When Zeus carried off Europa, Agenor sent his three sons out to find her, telling them not to return until they find her. The search was unsuccessful. Cilix eventually settled down in Asia Minor. The land was called Cilicia after him." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Cilice?
Cilice is pronounced "/ˈsɪlɪs/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Cilice is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Cilice can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root Kílikas > Kílix influences how Cilice sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Cilice?
Cilice is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Cilice offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Cilice's popularity may vary between greek communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Kílikas (Κίλικας) Kílix (Κῐ́λῐξ),” meaning “Cilicia, a region in Asia Minor.” Cilix was, according to Greek mythology, a son of Agenor and Telephassa or Argiope and brother of Cadmus, Phoenix, and Europa. When Zeus carried off Europa, Agenor sent his three sons out to find her, telling them not to return until they find her. The search was unsuccessful. Cilix eventually settled down in Asia Minor. The land was called Cilicia after him." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Cilice holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Cilice commonly used?
Cilice is used primarily in italian naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Cilice found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Kílikas (Κίλικας) Kílix (Κῐ́λῐξ),” meaning “Cilicia, a region in Asia Minor.” Cilix was, according to Greek mythology, a son of Agenor and Telephassa or Argiope and brother of Cadmus, Phoenix, and Europa. When Zeus carried off Europa, Agenor sent his three sons out to find her, telling them not to return until they find her. The search was unsuccessful. Cilix eventually settled down in Asia Minor. The land was called Cilicia after him." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Cilice into their naming traditions. A child named Cilice will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Cilice is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Cilice?
Cilice carries associations with GREEK MYTHOLOGY (MINOR FIGURES). These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Kílikas (Κίλικας) Kílix (Κῐ́λῐξ),” meaning “Cilicia, a region in Asia Minor.” Cilix was, according to Greek mythology, a son of Agenor and Telephassa or Argiope and brother of Cadmus, Phoenix, and Europa. When Zeus carried off Europa, Agenor sent his three sons out to find her, telling them not to return until they find her. The search was unsuccessful. Cilix eventually settled down in Asia Minor. The land was called Cilicia after him." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Cilice originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Cilice sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Cilice often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In italian communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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