Of Greek origin.
From the Greek name «Φύλλις» (Phyllis).
Derives from the Greek word «φύλλον» (phyllon), meaning “leave”.
According to Greek mythology, Phyllis was the daughter of Thracian King Sithon and the nymph Mendeis. She was in love with Demophon, son of Theseus, and when he has to leave for Athens and she thought he would not return she commits suicide. In her resting ground, an almond tree would grow and it would blossom when years later Demophon would return.
Other forms of the name are Phillis, Fillis, Philisse, Phylicia.
Famous bearers are Phyllis Logan, Phyllis Smith, Phyllis Chesler, Phyllis Davis, Phyllis Nelson.