"dweller near the holly trees"
Origin: Middle English
Language: English
Hollis
Pronunciation: [ h-AHL-ihs ]
Girl Name
#1,239 Most Popular
Hidden Gem
2 Syllables
A woodland surname with timeless natural charm
English
American
Earthy
Vintage
Elegant
Unique
Modern
Meaning & Origin
"holly tree settlement"
Origin: Old English
Language: English
The Story of Hollis
Hollis originates from the Middle English surname Holles, meaning one who lives near the holly trees. Holly trees were considered sacred in Celtic traditions and were believed to ward off evil spirits. The name transitioned from a surname to a given name in the 19th century and has become increasingly popular as a gender-neutral option.
Hollis has been gaining traction as parents seek nature-inspired names that feel distinctive but not too unusual. It appeals to those who love Holly but want something more unusual and gender-flexible.
Holly trees hold deep significance in British folklore, associated with protection, luck, and winter festivities. The name carries a connection to nature and the English countryside.
Fun Facts
- Holly trees were sacred to the Celts and used to decorate homes in winter
- Hollis was originally an English surname meaning someone living near holly trees
Hollis in Other Languages
French
Hollis
German
Hollis
Spanish
Hollis
Famous People Named Hollis
H
Hollis Brown
Musician
Rock band from New York known for their energetic live performances
H
Hollis Mason Fictional
Other
The original Nite Owl, a superhero character in Alan Moore's Watchmen graphic novel
Quick Facts
- Gender
- Girl
- Syllables
- 2
- Popularity Rank
- #1,239
- Total SSA Count
- 188
- Cultural Origins
- English American
- Pronunciation
- Easy
- Formality
- Moderate
- Cross-Cultural Ease
- Moderate
Alternative Spellings
Common Nicknames
Holly
Holl
Pairs Well With
Hollis Mae
Hollis Jane
Hollis Rose
Hollis Quinn
Hollis Grace
Hollis Wren
Sibling Names
Also a Boy Name
Hollis is also used as a boy name, ranked #1055.
View Hollis as a boy name →Similar Names
Playground Safety
Kid-Friendly
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Frequently Asked Questions About Hollis
What does the name Hollis mean?
"dweller near the holly trees" (from Middle English). "holly tree settlement" (from Old English). Hollis originates from the Middle English surname Holles, meaning one who lives near the holly trees. Holly trees were considered sacred in Celtic traditions and were believed to ward off evil spirits. The name transitioned from a surname to a given name in the 19th century and has become increasingly popular as a gender-neutral option.
What is the origin of the name Hollis?
Hollis has Middle English, Old English, English, and American origins. In Middle English, it means "dweller near the holly trees". In Old English, it means "holly tree settlement".
Is Hollis a boy or girl name?
Hollis is used as both a girl and boy name. As a girl name, it is ranked #1239. As a boy name, it is ranked #1055. Hollis is more commonly used as a boy name.
How do you pronounce Hollis?
Hollis is pronounced h-AHL-ihs.
How popular is the name Hollis?
Hollis is currently ranked #1239 in popularity for girl names in the United States.
What are common nicknames for Hollis?
Common nicknames for Hollis include Holly and Holl.
What are good middle names for Hollis?
Popular middle name pairings include Hollis Mae, Hollis Jane, Hollis Rose, Hollis Quinn, Hollis Grace, and Hollis Wren.
What are good sibling names for Hollis?
Names that pair well with Hollis as siblings include Ellis, Sylvie, Waverly, Brooks, Fletcher, and Willa.
How many syllables does Hollis have?
Hollis has 2 syllables, making it easy to say and remember.
Is Hollis a common or rare name?
Hollis is an uncommon name, ranked #1239 in the US. Its rarity gives it a distinctive, memorable quality.
About the Name Hollis
Hollis is a girl name with English and American origins . The name means "dweller near the holly trees" in Middle English .
Is Hollis a boy or girl name? Hollis is used as both a girl and boy name. As a girl name, it ranks #1,239 in popularity. As a boy name, it ranks #1,055. Hollis is more commonly used as a boy name.
Hollis is currently ranked #1,239 in popularity for girl names in the United States.
The name Hollis has 2 syllables and is pronounced h-AHL-ihs, making it easy to pronounce and remember.
Common nicknames for Hollis include Holly and Holl. These shorter forms provide casual alternatives while keeping the elegance of the full name.
Alternative spellings of Hollis include Holly, Holland, Hollyn, Hollie, Holley . Each spelling variation gives the name a slightly different character while preserving its sound and meaning.