gille

Gille is a term found in Goidelic languages, notably Scottish Gaelic and Irish Gaelic, meaning "servant" or "youth." It also occurs as a component in historical Gaelic personal names and as a root element in various compound forms. The word is closely related to other Gaelic terms such as gilla, and cognate forms appear in related Celtic languages. In medieval charters and annals, gille often functions as a descriptive element within a name rather than as a standalone surname; over time, it was occasionally adopted as a surname in Gaelic-speaking areas and among diaspora communities.

Modern usage: Gille is sometimes encountered as a given name or surname in Gaelic-speaking regions and in communities with Gaelic heritage. It is relatively uncommon as a modern standalone given name, but it may appear in historic or revival contexts, or as part of longer traditional names. As a surname, it can appear in variants influenced by local spelling and pronunciation, and may reflect historical naming practices in the Gaelic world.

See also: Gill, Gillie.