Is Ellis a boy or girl name?

Ellis is considered a unisex name. While it has historical roots as a masculine name, it is increasingly used for girls, often as an alternative to Ella or Alice.

What is the biblical origin of Ellis?

Ellis is the English derivative of Elias, which is the Greek and Latin form of the Hebrew name Elijah, meaning 'My God is Yahweh'.

Is Ellis a common surname?

Yes, Ellis is a very common surname in English-speaking countries, particularly in Wales, which contributed to its adoption as a given name.

Ellis

/EL-iss/

English, Welsh

Ellis is an English, Welsh baby name pronounced /EL-iss/. The name Ellis is a gentle name that traditionally means 'Jehovah is God' or 'benevolent'.

Meaning of Ellis

The name Ellis is a gentle name that traditionally means 'Jehovah is God' or 'benevolent'.

It primarily developed as an English vernacular form of the biblical name Elias (Elijah). In a Welsh context, it is derived from the name Elisedd, which comes from the word 'elus', meaning kindly or benevolent. The name transitioned from a common medieval surname to a widely used first name.

Origin: English, Welsh
Pronunciation: /EL-iss/

Cultural background

While historically more common for boys, it has become a popular gender-neutral choice in the United Kingdom and the United States. It carries a vintage, scholarly feel that has seen a significant revival in the 21st century.

Variations & nicknames

Elias
Elis
Elyas
Ellice
Eliseo
Elles

Famous people named Ellis

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

Ellis Bell
The male pseudonym used by author Emily Brontë to publish Wuthering Heights.
Literature · 19th Century
Ellis Marsalis Jr.
Renowned jazz pianist and educator, patriarch of the Marsalis musical family.
Music · 20th Century
Ellis Peters
Pen name of Edith Pargeter, author of the Brother Cadfael mysteries.
Literature · 20th Century
Ellis Burks
Former Major League Baseball outfielder and two-time All-Star.
Sport · Late 20th Century
Ellis Ross
Character played by Anthony Anderson in the sitcom 'Black-ish'.
Film · Modern

Frequently asked about Ellis

Is Ellis a boy or girl name?: Ellis is considered a unisex name. While it has historical roots as a masculine name, it is increasingly used for girls, often as an alternative to Ella or Alice.
What is the biblical origin of Ellis?: Ellis is the English derivative of Elias, which is the Greek and Latin form of the Hebrew name Elijah, meaning 'My God is Yahweh'.
Is Ellis a common surname?: Yes, Ellis is a very common surname in English-speaking countries, particularly in Wales, which contributed to its adoption as a given name.

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