Artis

Origin & Etymology

Artis is a Latvian masculine name most common in Latvia, though it functions as a gender-neutral name in American usage. It may be related to the Celtic root 'artos' meaning 'bear', which also gives us Arthur and the Arthurian legend tradition. As a girl's name, Artis carries a strong, artistic resonance — potentially connected to the Latin 'ars/artis' meaning 'art, skill', giving it a creative dimension that makes it particularly appealing for artistic families.

Popularity Story

Artis is rare as a girl's name in America, though it has some usage as a gender-neutral name. NBA player Artis Gilmore popularized it for boys in the 1970s. For girls, it carries an artistic, unconventional quality that appeals to parents seeking something beyond Artemis or Ariana.

Cultural Significance

In Latvia, Artis is a traditional masculine name. In the American context, Artis-as-a-girl's-name benefits from its similarity to 'artsy' and its connection to the arts through the Latin 'ars'. It also resonates with Artemis, the Greek goddess of the hunt.

Fun Facts

• Artis is related to the Celtic word for 'bear', the same root that gives us Arthur
• Artis Gilmore, Hall of Fame NBA center, was a prominent bearer of this name in the 1970s-80s
• In Latin, 'artis' is the genitive form of 'ars' meaning art — connecting the name to creativity

Artis in Other Languages