Pílades

Boy Name
Origin:greek
Pronunciation:/ˈpɪlədɛs/

Pílades: a male name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “púlē (πῠ́λη) Puládēs (Πῠλᾰ́δης),” meaning “door, gate". It derives from the Greek word "púlē > Puládēs".

Parents seeking a meaningful masculine name often discover Pílades, drawn to its Greek heritage and beautiful significance: "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “púlē (πῠ́λη) Puládēs (Πῠλᾰ́δης),” meaning “door, gate". This name offers a perfect blend of cultural depth and personal meaning, making it a timeless choice for families around the world.

Quick Facts About Pílades

Quick facts about Pílades
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 “púlē (πῠ́λη) Puládēs (Πῠλᾰ́δης),” meaning “door, gate.” Pylades is the son of King Strophius of Phocis and Anaxibia, daughter of Atreus, and sister of Agamemnon and Menelaus. He is mostly known for his strong friendship with his cousin Orestes, son of Agamemnon.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

púlē > Puládēs

How to Pronounce Pílades

Pílades is pronounced /ˈpɪlədɛs/(Greek)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Pílad-es
  2. Say it like: "PEEHLOOHDEHS"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Usage & Popularity

This name has found popularity across spanish, and catalan speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.

spanishcatalan
Frequently Asked Questions About Pílades
What does the name Pílades mean?
Pílades means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “púlē (πῠ́λη) Puládēs (Πῠλᾰ́δης),” meaning “door, gate.” Pylades is the son of King Strophius of Phocis and Anaxibia, daughter of Atreus, and sister of Agamemnon and Menelaus. He is mostly known for his strong friendship with his cousin Orestes, son of Agamemnon.". The name comes from púlē > Puládēs. In its original form, the name derives from púlē (πῠ́λη)� Puládēs (Πῠλᾰ́δης). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Pílades for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “púlē (πῠ́λη) Puládēs (Πῠλᾰ́δης),” meaning “door, gate.” Pylades is the son of King Strophius of Phocis and Anaxibia, daughter of Atreus, and sister of Agamemnon and Menelaus. He is mostly known for his strong friendship with his cousin Orestes, son of Agamemnon." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Pílades'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 Pílades?
Pílades is a greek name. The name traces back to púlē > Puládēs. The original form púlē (πῠ́λη)� Puládēs (Πῠλᾰ́δης) shows the name's roots in its native language. From its greek roots, Pílades spread to become common in spanish, catalan. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “púlē (πῠ́λη) Puládēs (Πῠλᾰ́δης),” meaning “door, gate.” Pylades is the son of King Strophius of Phocis and Anaxibia, daughter of Atreus, and sister of Agamemnon and Menelaus. He is mostly known for his strong friendship with his cousin Orestes, son of Agamemnon." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Pílades a boy or girl name?
Pílades 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, Pílades has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “púlē (πῠ́λη) Puládēs (Πῠλᾰ́δης),” meaning “door, gate.” Pylades is the son of King Strophius of Phocis and Anaxibia, daughter of Atreus, and sister of Agamemnon and Menelaus. He is mostly known for his strong friendship with his cousin Orestes, son of Agamemnon." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Pílades?
Pílades is pronounced "/ˈpɪlədɛs/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Pílades is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in spanish, catalan, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Pílades can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root púlē > Puládēs influences how Pílades sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Pílades?
Pílades is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Pílades offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Pílades'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 “púlē (πῠ́λη) Puládēs (Πῠλᾰ́δης),” meaning “door, gate.” Pylades is the son of King Strophius of Phocis and Anaxibia, daughter of Atreus, and sister of Agamemnon and Menelaus. He is mostly known for his strong friendship with his cousin Orestes, son of Agamemnon." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Pílades holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Pílades commonly used?
Pílades is common in spanish and catalan naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Pílades found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “púlē (πῠ́λη) Puládēs (Πῠλᾰ́δης),” meaning “door, gate.” Pylades is the son of King Strophius of Phocis and Anaxibia, daughter of Atreus, and sister of Agamemnon and Menelaus. He is mostly known for his strong friendship with his cousin Orestes, son of Agamemnon." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Pílades into their naming traditions. A child named Pílades 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, Pílades is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Pílades?
Pílades 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 “púlē (πῠ́λη) Puládēs (Πῠλᾰ́δης),” meaning “door, gate.” Pylades is the son of King Strophius of Phocis and Anaxibia, daughter of Atreus, and sister of Agamemnon and Menelaus. He is mostly known for his strong friendship with his cousin Orestes, son of Agamemnon." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Pílades 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 Pílades sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Pílades often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In spanish 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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