Ellis (given name)
Ellis is a given name of Welsh and English origin. It is primarily used as a male given name, though in some instances, it is also used as a female given name.
Origin and Meaning:
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Welsh: Ellis is derived from the Welsh name Elis, which is a form of the biblical name Elijah. The meaning of Elijah is "My God is Yahweh."
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English: In England, Ellis can also be a surname turned given name, originating from a medieval form of the name Elias, which also derives from Elijah.
Usage:
Ellis is more commonly used as a male name, particularly in English-speaking countries. Its popularity has fluctuated over time, experiencing periods of increased and decreased usage. As a female name, Ellis is less common but has gained some traction in recent years as a modern and relatively gender-neutral option.
Variations and Related Names:
- Elias
- Elis
- Elijah
- Allison (can be considered distantly related through shared Biblical roots and variations)
Notable People Named Ellis:
Many notable people have the given name Ellis. (Specific examples would be included here in a more comprehensive entry, adhering to encyclopedic standards.)