Hollis as a Baby Name. Meaning and Origin of Hollis

What is the meaning of the name Hollis ?

The baby name Hollis is a Unisex name , 2 syllables long and is pronounced HOL-iss (IPA: /ˈhɒlɪs/; US often /ˈhɑlɪs/).

Hollis is English in Origin.

Hollis is an English surname-turned-given name derived from Middle English holly, ultimately Old English holegn, with the genitive -es: “dweller at the holly trees” or “from the holly grove.” As a toponymic surname it marked people who lived near stands of holly, an evergreen associated with protection and winter festivities. The given name is genuinely unisex, with Holly commonly used as a familiar form.

In the Anglophone world Hollis began appearing as a first name in the 19th century, following the fashion for adopting surnames as forenames; it was more common for boys in the early 20th century, then later found a fresh, gender-neutral footing. Documented variants and related forms include Holles, Holliss, Hollice/Hollace, and Hollins, while Holly/Hollie share the same botanical root. The name’s imagery - evergreen resilience and bright red berries - adds a quietly festive, nature-linked meaning.