Pillai Surname
“Child, noble offspring”
Also spelled: Pillay
Various surnamesTamil/Malayalam origin · Tamil/Malayalam
History & Significance
A title and surname used across Tamil and Malayalam-speaking communities. In Tamil Nadu, associated with the Vellalar agricultural community; in Kerala, used by the Nair community. The title historically denoted nobility and was conferred upon distinguished community members.
What is the Gotra for Pillai?
Gotra is passed down through the paternal line and may vary within families sharing the same surname. Use our Gotra Finder to discover which Gotra your family belongs to.
Find Pillai Gotra →Meaning & Origin
- Meaning
- Child, noble offspring
- Origin
- Tamil/Malayalam
- Language
- Tamil/Malayalam
- Category
- Various
Regional Distribution
The Pillai surname is predominantly found in: