US Popularity Rank: 15512

Origin: British

Meaning: Protection; Kid or young goat

Giles is a British and French surname making its move as a personal name for boys. Dating back to Ancient Greece, Giles has evolved over the millennia as a descendant of the Latin Aegidius from the Greek aigís. Meaning “protection,” “kid,” or “young goat,” the name refers to the Aegis—the mythical shield of Zeus and Athena—crafted from goatskin. Made famous by the miracle worker Saint Giles, this high-minded name journeyed to Britain with the Normans in the 11th century. Buffy the Vampire Slayer fans may associate this dapper title with the beloved Rupert Giles, Buffy’s honorable Watcher and steadfast father figure.