US Popularity Rank: 136

Origin: Latin

Meaning: forest, woods

Silas is a boy's name of Latin origin, ideal for those with great love for the outdoors. The name derives from the Latin Silvanus, which means "wood" or "forest," inspiring images of a daring explorer unfazed by the depths of the darkest woodland. How fitting that Silvanus is also the name of the Roman god of the countryside, often merged with the Greek god Pan. Before Silvanus ruled over pristine pastures, he first emerged as a protector of uncultivated land. Nothing pleased the deity more than a wild tree growing in abandon, embracing its freedom unmarred by civilization. Cut from the same cloth, Silas emerges as an endearing appellation for a carefree spirit with the glimpse of a rebellious soul.