Hollis

Meaning & origin

Hollis is a surname-style given name with English roots, originally indicating someone who lived near holly trees or a hollow. The name first appeared in U.S. records in 1880 and peaked in 1908, when it was used most frequently. After a long period of decline, Hollis has been rising in popularity since 2001, likely due to the trend of using surnames as first names and the appeal of its gentle, unisex sound. In 2025, the name ranked 893rd in the United States, with a ratio of 1 in 6,421 newborns. Its revival is notable in states like Mississippi, Oregon, and Louisiana, where it ranks higher. The steady climb over the past two decades suggests Hollis is becoming a favored choice for parents seeking a name that is both classic and fresh.

Hollis is an English surname derived from the Middle English word 'holis', meaning 'holly trees' or from 'holh', meaning 'hollow'. It originated as a locational name for someone who lived near a holly grove or a hollow in the landscape. As a given name, Hollis has been in use since at least the 19th century, initially more common for boys but increasingly used for girls in recent decades. The surname Hollis had notable bearers such as the English clergyman Thomas Hollis (1690-1730), but the given name remained relatively rare until its modern revival.