Meaning & History
Hillar is an Estonian masculine given name, most familiar as a form of Hilarius. The Latin name Hilarius derives from the word hilaris meaning "cheerful," itself borrowed from the Greek ἱλαρός (hilaros), also meaning "cheerful." In historical and religious contexts, Hilarius was the name of a 4th-century saint, a theologian and bishop of Poitiers, as well as a 5th-century pope. Hillar is one of several vernacular forms that emerged in Europe; cognates include English Hilary, Finnish Ilari, and Macedonian Ilarion.
As an Estonian name, Hillar gained popularity during the 20th century. An equestrian among notable bearers include politicians like Hillar Eller (1939–2010) and Hillar Kalda (born 1932), also a physician; musicians like composer Hillar Kareva (1931–1992); sports figures like ski jumper Hillar Hein (born 1954); and academics like historian Hillar Palamets (1927–2022). International bearers include Swedish politician Helena Hillar Rosenqvist and American philosopher Marian Hillar.
- Meaning: "cheerful"
- Origin: from Latin Hilarius (Greek Hilaros)
- Type: given name
- Usage: primarily Estonian
Related Names
Sources: Wikipedia — Hillar