Hilary - name meaning, origin

The girl's name Hilary \

, also used as boy's name Hilary, is pronounced HILL-a-ree. It is of Latin origin, and its meaning is "cheerful, happy". The name comes from the same root as "hilarious". Name of a fourth-century saint and a fifth-century pope. Hilaire (ee-LARE) is a French form. First Lady Hillary Clinton; actress Hilary Swank; singer Hilary Duff.

For more information, see also related names Alair, Alegra, Happy, Ilaria and Larissa.

Hilary is a very common first name for women (#735 out of 4276) but an uncommon last name for both men and women. (1990 U.S. Census)

Displayed below is the baby name popularity trend for the girl name Hilary. Compare Hilary with its variant forms and related girl names.