Ellis Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Ellis come from? What does the surname Ellis mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Ellis and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Elijah, Bellis, Eales, Elcock, Elles, Elliott, Ellison, Ells, Ely
Surname Ellis Origin: What does the last name Ellis mean?
The surname Ellis has Welsh and English origins, with some sources suggesting a French connection from the phrase fleur-de-lis. It is also noted to be a Jewish surname. YourRoots data shows that the surname Ellis first appeared in records from England around the early 13th century. Over time, the Ellis surname spread to the United States, where it became more prominent by the 17th century, surpassing its presence in England.
YourRoots data confirms the widespread distribution of the Ellis surname globally. From the United Kingdom to the United States and beyond, the Ellis name has established itself in various countries, showcasing its extensive reach. This surname's history highlights a blend of Welsh, English, and potentially French origins, reflecting a diverse heritage that continues to resonate in different parts of the world.
Ellis Last Name History: Where did the last name Ellis come from?
Origin of Ellis Surname: Where does the last name Ellis originate from?
According to the data from YourRoots, the surname Ellis first appeared in records from England (United Kingdom) around the early 13th century. It's important to note that this data only reflects the exact spelling of "Ellis" in the YourRoots database and does not consider other possible sources or variations of the surname.
History of the Last Name Ellis: How did the Ellis surname history unfold in the early days?
The surname Ellis remained closely associated with England from the 13th through the 15th century, as shown by the YourRoots data. However, by the 17th century, the frequency of Ellis family records had significantly grown in the United States, surpassing those in England. This indicates a considerable spread of the Ellis surname overseas during these centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Ellis surname today?
By the 18th century, the volume of Ellis family records had reached its peak in the United States, indicating a significant presence of the Ellis surname in this country. In the 19th century, the United States still held the highest volume of Ellis records, showing the continued prominence of the Ellis surname in this region. As of the early 21st century, YourRoots data shows the Ellis surname appearing in the United States, but it's important to remember that this data does not necessarily represent the global distribution of the Ellis surname today.
Explore Ellis last name heritage and Ellis surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Ellis Surame?
Nelsan Ellis
Nelsan Ellis (Nov 30, 1977 - July 8, 2017) was an American actor known for his role as Lafayette Reynolds in the hit HBO series True Blood. He also appeared in films like Secretariat and Get on Up, showcasing his versatile acting skills. Ellis was beloved by fans and critics alike for his memorable performances.
Aunjanue Ellis
Aunjanue L. Ellis (Feb 21, 1969 - ) is a talented American actress known for her work in film, television, and theater. She has appeared in popular shows like "Quantico" and "True Detective," as well as in films like "Ray" and "The Help." Ellis has received critical acclaim for her performances and continues to be a respected figure in the entertainment industry.
Eliécer Ellis
Eliécer Ellis (born 13 Dec 1945) is a Panamanian former basketball player who competed in the 1968 Summer Olympics. He represented his country with pride on the international stage, showcasing his skills and passion for the sport.
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