Vasilis is a unique and distinctive male given name of Greek origin. It is derived from the Greek word 'vasileos', which translates to 'king'. Thus, Vasilis means 'little king' or 'royal'. This name has been traditionally used in Greece for centuries and is still popular today.
The name Vasilis first gained prominence during the Byzantine Empire, where it was often bestowed upon members of royal families or those of high social standing. Over time, however, its usage spread throughout the Greek population, becoming a common choice for baby boys. Today, Vasilis is not only prevalent in Greece but also among Greek communities worldwide.
Historically, there are several notable figures who have borne this name. One such figure is Vasilis Tsitsanis (1925-1984), a famous Greek composer and bouzouki player who played a significant role in shaping modern Greek music. Another prominent Vasilis was Vasilis Diamantopoulos, a Greek Olympic champion in weightlifting at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.
In popular culture, Vasilis has been used as a character name in various movies, TV shows, and books set in Greece or with Greek themes. For example, there is a character named Vasilis in the novel "The Island" by Victoria Hislop, which explores the history of Spinalonga, a Greek leper colony.
In summary, Vasilis is an ancient yet enduring Greek name that carries the meaning of royalty and dignity. Its rich history and cultural significance make it a beloved choice among Greeks and those who appreciate unique and meaningful names.
The name Vasilis has been given to a total of 186 children born in the United States between 1978 and 2021, according to the annual statistics provided. While it is not one of the most popular names during this period, it has still been chosen for a significant number of newborns.
The name's popularity fluctuated over the years, with some peak years including 2000 (with 11 births), 2007 (with 10 births), and 2006 (with 9 births). However, it seems that its usage has been more consistent since around the year 2000, with at least five Vasilises being born each year from 1978 to 2021.
It is worth noting that the name Vasilis appears to have had a resurgence in recent years, with five births reported in both 2017 and 2021. This indicates that there may be a renewed interest in this name among parents in the United States today.
Overall, while Vasilis may not be one of the most commonly used names in the U.S., it has still been chosen for a substantial number of children over the past four decades. Its usage has varied over time but has shown signs of recent popularity.