Griffis Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Griffis come from? What does the surname Griffis mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Griffis and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Griffis Origin: What does the last name Griffis mean?
The surname Griffis is of English origin, derived from the personal name "Griff," which itself is a diminutive of Griffith, meaning "strong chief" or "warlord." The surname has been present since the 17th to 19th centuries, closely associated with countries during that time. Notable individuals bearing the Griffis surname include composer Elliot Griffis, orientalist William Elliot Griffis, actress Rhoda Griffis, and aviator Townsend Griffiss.
YourRoots data indicates that the Griffis surname has a historical presence in various countries, signifying its global spread over the years. From the origins of the name to its modern-day distribution, the surname Griffis reflects a heritage linked to strength and leadership, resonating across different regions and cultures.
Griffis Last Name History: Where did the last name Griffis come from?
Origin of Griffis Surname: Where does the last name Griffis originate from?
Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Griffis spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Griffis: What does the Griffis surname history look like in the early days?
The Griffis surname remained closely associated with countries from the 17th to 19th centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Griffis surname today?
Explore Griffis last name heritage and Griffis surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Griffis Surame?
Rhoda Griffis
Rhoda Griffis (January 9, 1965) is an American actress known for her supporting roles in independent and mainstream films and television. She has appeared in a variety of stage productions and made her film debut in Love Field, portraying Jacqueline Kennedy. Griffis has also worked on TV movies and series like In the Heat of the Night and Army Wives. With a background in theater, she has performed with various repertory theaters and is recognized for her roles in movies like Runaway Jury and Walk the Line. In addition to acting, Griffis teaches on-camera acting and voice-overs in Atlanta, Georgia.
William Elliot Griffis
William Elliot Griffis (September 17, 1843 - February 5, 1928) was an American orientalist, Congregational minister, lecturer, and prolific author. He played a significant role in modernizing education in Japan and was a key figure in Japanese-American relations during the late 19th century. Griffis also authored several books on Japan and Japanese culture, including the well-known "Bushido: The Soul of Japan." Through his writings and lectures, he made lasting contributions to the understanding of Japanese history and culture in the Western world.
Elliot Griffis
John Elliot Griffis (January 28, 1893 – 1967) was an American composer known for his chamber music, piano pieces, and songs. Son of the noted Orientalist William Elliot Griffis, he studied at Yale University and the New England Conservatory of Music before serving in the United States Army. In 1931, he received a Pulitzer Fellowship for his String Quartet in C Major. Griffis taught at various music institutions before settling in Los Angeles. He composed works for orchestra and opera, including 1963's The Port of Pleasure. Griffis's legacy lives on through his compositions and papers archived at the University of Texas at Austin.
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