Egils

Boy Name
Origin:germanic
Pronunciation:/ˈeɪɡɪls/

Egils: a male name of Germanic origin meaning "This name derives from the Proto-Norse “*AʒilaR,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*agi- / *agaz,” meaning “awe, terror, fear, dread,” or from the Ancient Germanic “*agi,ō,” meaning “edge, corner, sharpness (of a weapon), sword” (Proto-Germanic “*Agilaz”)". It derives from the Germanic word "*Agilaz > *agi- / *agaz / *agi,ō > *AʒilaR".

Egils is a masculine name that means "This name derives from the Proto-Norse “*AʒilaR,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*agi- / *agaz,” meaning “awe, terror, fear, dread,” or from the Ancient Germanic “*agi,ō,” meaning “edge, corner, sharpness (of a weapon), sword” (Proto-Germanic “*Agilaz”)". Its Germanic origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.

Quick Facts About Egils

Quick facts about Egils
OriginGermanic
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 Proto-Norse “*AʒilaR,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*agi- / *agaz,” meaning “awe, terror, fear, dread,” or from the Ancient Germanic “*agi,ō,” meaning “edge, corner, sharpness (of a weapon), sword” (Proto-Germanic “*Agilaz”). Egil is a legendary hero of the Völundarkviða and the Thidreks saga. The name is from Proto-Germanic *Agilaz, and the same legend is reflected in Old English Ægil of the Franks Casket and Alamannic Aigil of the Pforzen buckle. The Proto-Germanic form of the myth may only be guessed. Still, it appears likely that Egil was a renowned archer who defended a keep together with his wife Aliruna, against numerous attackers. The testimony of the Pforzen buckle is uncertain beyond naming Aigil and Ailrun, possibly adding that they fought a battle at the river Ilz.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

*Agilaz > *agi- / *agaz / *agi,ō > *AʒilaR

How to Pronounce Egils

Egils is pronounced /ˈeɪɡɪls/(English)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Eg-ils
  2. Say it like: "EG-ILS"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

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

latvian
Frequently Asked Questions About Egils
What does the name Egils mean?
Egils means "This name derives from the Proto-Norse “*AʒilaR,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*agi- / *agaz,” meaning “awe, terror, fear, dread,” or from the Ancient Germanic “*agi,ō,” meaning “edge, corner, sharpness (of a weapon), sword” (Proto-Germanic “*Agilaz”). Egil is a legendary hero of the Völundarkviða and the Thidreks saga. The name is from Proto-Germanic *Agilaz, and the same legend is reflected in Old English Ægil of the Franks Casket and Alamannic Aigil of the Pforzen buckle. The Proto-Germanic form of the myth may only be guessed. Still, it appears likely that Egil was a renowned archer who defended a keep together with his wife Aliruna, against numerous attackers. The testimony of the Pforzen buckle is uncertain beyond naming Aigil and Ailrun, possibly adding that they fought a battle at the river Ilz.". The name comes from *Agilaz > *agi- / *agaz / *agi,ō > *AʒilaR. This germanic name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Egils for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Proto-Norse “*AʒilaR,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*agi- / *agaz,” meaning “awe, terror, fear, dread,” or from the Ancient Germanic “*agi,ō,” meaning “edge, corner, sharpness (of a weapon), sword” (Proto-Germanic “*Agilaz”). Egil is a legendary hero of the Völundarkviða and the Thidreks saga. The name is from Proto-Germanic *Agilaz, and the same legend is reflected in Old English Ægil of the Franks Casket and Alamannic Aigil of the Pforzen buckle. The Proto-Germanic form of the myth may only be guessed. Still, it appears likely that Egil was a renowned archer who defended a keep together with his wife Aliruna, against numerous attackers. The testimony of the Pforzen buckle is uncertain beyond naming Aigil and Ailrun, possibly adding that they fought a battle at the river Ilz." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Egils's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like GERMANIC MYTHOLOGY, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Egils?
Egils is a germanic name. The name traces back to *Agilaz > *agi- / *agaz / *agi,ō > *AʒilaR. The name remains closely tied to latvian naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The germanic meaning "This name derives from the Proto-Norse “*AʒilaR,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*agi- / *agaz,” meaning “awe, terror, fear, dread,” or from the Ancient Germanic “*agi,ō,” meaning “edge, corner, sharpness (of a weapon), sword” (Proto-Germanic “*Agilaz”). Egil is a legendary hero of the Völundarkviða and the Thidreks saga. The name is from Proto-Germanic *Agilaz, and the same legend is reflected in Old English Ægil of the Franks Casket and Alamannic Aigil of the Pforzen buckle. The Proto-Germanic form of the myth may only be guessed. Still, it appears likely that Egil was a renowned archer who defended a keep together with his wife Aliruna, against numerous attackers. The testimony of the Pforzen buckle is uncertain beyond naming Aigil and Ailrun, possibly adding that they fought a battle at the river Ilz." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Egils a boy or girl name?
Egils 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 germanic tradition, Egils has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Proto-Norse “*AʒilaR,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*agi- / *agaz,” meaning “awe, terror, fear, dread,” or from the Ancient Germanic “*agi,ō,” meaning “edge, corner, sharpness (of a weapon), sword” (Proto-Germanic “*Agilaz”). Egil is a legendary hero of the Völundarkviða and the Thidreks saga. The name is from Proto-Germanic *Agilaz, and the same legend is reflected in Old English Ægil of the Franks Casket and Alamannic Aigil of the Pforzen buckle. The Proto-Germanic form of the myth may only be guessed. Still, it appears likely that Egil was a renowned archer who defended a keep together with his wife Aliruna, against numerous attackers. The testimony of the Pforzen buckle is uncertain beyond naming Aigil and Ailrun, possibly adding that they fought a battle at the river Ilz." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Egils?
Egils is pronounced "/ˈeɪɡɪls/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Egils is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with germanic names, listening to a native speaker say Egils can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Egils?
Egils is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Egils offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Egils's popularity may vary between germanic communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Proto-Norse “*AʒilaR,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*agi- / *agaz,” meaning “awe, terror, fear, dread,” or from the Ancient Germanic “*agi,ō,” meaning “edge, corner, sharpness (of a weapon), sword” (Proto-Germanic “*Agilaz”). Egil is a legendary hero of the Völundarkviða and the Thidreks saga. The name is from Proto-Germanic *Agilaz, and the same legend is reflected in Old English Ægil of the Franks Casket and Alamannic Aigil of the Pforzen buckle. The Proto-Germanic form of the myth may only be guessed. Still, it appears likely that Egil was a renowned archer who defended a keep together with his wife Aliruna, against numerous attackers. The testimony of the Pforzen buckle is uncertain beyond naming Aigil and Ailrun, possibly adding that they fought a battle at the river Ilz." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Egils holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Egils commonly used?
Egils is used primarily in latvian naming traditions. Though germanic in origin, Egils found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Proto-Norse “*AʒilaR,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*agi- / *agaz,” meaning “awe, terror, fear, dread,” or from the Ancient Germanic “*agi,ō,” meaning “edge, corner, sharpness (of a weapon), sword” (Proto-Germanic “*Agilaz”). Egil is a legendary hero of the Völundarkviða and the Thidreks saga. The name is from Proto-Germanic *Agilaz, and the same legend is reflected in Old English Ægil of the Franks Casket and Alamannic Aigil of the Pforzen buckle. The Proto-Germanic form of the myth may only be guessed. Still, it appears likely that Egil was a renowned archer who defended a keep together with his wife Aliruna, against numerous attackers. The testimony of the Pforzen buckle is uncertain beyond naming Aigil and Ailrun, possibly adding that they fought a battle at the river Ilz." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Egils into their naming traditions. A child named Egils 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, Egils is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Egils?
Egils carries associations with GERMANIC MYTHOLOGY. 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 Proto-Norse “*AʒilaR,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*agi- / *agaz,” meaning “awe, terror, fear, dread,” or from the Ancient Germanic “*agi,ō,” meaning “edge, corner, sharpness (of a weapon), sword” (Proto-Germanic “*Agilaz”). Egil is a legendary hero of the Völundarkviða and the Thidreks saga. The name is from Proto-Germanic *Agilaz, and the same legend is reflected in Old English Ægil of the Franks Casket and Alamannic Aigil of the Pforzen buckle. The Proto-Germanic form of the myth may only be guessed. Still, it appears likely that Egil was a renowned archer who defended a keep together with his wife Aliruna, against numerous attackers. The testimony of the Pforzen buckle is uncertain beyond naming Aigil and Ailrun, possibly adding that they fought a battle at the river Ilz." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In germanic culture, where Egils 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 Egils sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Egils often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In latvian 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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