Addis Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Addis come from? What does the surname Addis mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Addis and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Addis Origin: What does the last name Addis mean?
The surname Addis has roots dating back to Italy in the early 17th century, as per YourRoots data. It has historically been closely associated with Italy, but records also show its presence in countries like England, the United States, Australia, and Canada over the centuries. By the 20th century, the Addis surname had significantly expanded globally, with notable concentrations in Italy, the United States, Australia, Canada, and Ethiopia. It is a prominent surname found in various countries worldwide, including New Zealand, South Africa, Argentina, and Brazil.
YourRoots data further reveals the enduring presence of the Addis surname, indicating a widespread distribution across different regions and cultures. The surname's history and global spread showcase a rich heritage that has evolved and thrived over the centuries, reflecting a diverse and extensive family lineage for individuals with the surname Addis.
Addis Last Name History: Where did the last name Addis come from?
Origin of Addis Surname: Where does the last name Addis originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Addis first appeared in records from Italy around the early 17th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Addis spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Addis: What does the Addis surname history look like in the early days?
The Addis surname remained closely associated with Italy from the 17th to the 19th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Addis family records in countries like England, United States, Australia, and Canada, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Addis surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Addis surname grew significantly in Italy, United States, Australia, Canada, and Ethiopia. The Addis surname remains prominent in these regions. It appears in many countries, including New Zealand, South Africa, Argentina, and Brazil.
Explore Addis last name heritage and Addis surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Addis Surame?
Thomas Addis
Thomas Addis Jr. (27 Jul 1881 – 4 Jun 1949) was a Scottish physician-scientist known for his groundbreaking work in nephrology and haemophilia research. His studies revolutionized the understanding of blood clotting and kidney function. Addis developed a method to analyze urine specimens for diagnosing kidney diseases, leaving a lasting impact on modern renal physiology. Despite facing backlash for his leftist political views, he remained dedicated to humanitarian causes and medical advancements. Addis's legacy lives on through his contributions to medical science and his influential role in advancing healthcare practices.
Michael Addis
Michael David Addis is a comedic television and film director known for his work in hidden camera and reality-style comedy. He has directed hit shows like "Impractical Jokers" and produced on series such as "Hell Date" and "The Showbiz Show with David Spade." Addis has also worked on popular programs like Extreme Makeover: Home Edition and written for shows like The Man Show. With a strong presence in the industry, he has made a name for himself as a talented director and producer, showcasing his skills in a variety of comedic genres.
Yda Hillis Addis
Yda Hillis Addis (1857 – 1902) was an American writer known for translating ancient Mexican stories and writing fiction. She roamed the Western frontier and Mexico, submitting her work to various publications. Addis faced personal turmoil, including a failed engagement, a controversial divorce, and legal troubles. She published a history of Santa Barbara but faced challenges in her personal life, leading to imprisonment and time in an asylum. Addis ultimately disappeared in 1902, leaving behind a complex legacy as a pioneering female writer and a figure marked by personal struggles.
Mabel Addis
Mabel Addis Mergardt (May 21, 1912 – August 13, 2004) was an American writer, teacher, and the first video game writer. She designed The Sumerian Game in 1964, considered the first strategy video game, inspiring future kingdom management games like Hamurabi. Addis was a pioneer in the field, creating the concept of text-based games. She had a successful teaching career spanning five decades and made significant contributions to her community through historical writings and oral history collections. Addis received the Pioneer Award posthumously in 2023 for her groundbreaking work in the video game industry.
John Patrick Addis
John Patrick Addis (May 1950 – October 2006) was an American law enforcement officer known for his criminal activities, including parental child kidnapping, suspected domestic abuse, and being a prime suspect in the murders of two women. He had a history of controlling and abusive behavior towards his wives and partners, leading to multiple divorces and legal issues. Addis served time in prison for kidnapping his own children and later assumed a false identity, becoming involved in a murder case in Las Vegas. His life was filled with controversy and criminal activities, making him a notorious figure in law enforcement history.
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