Surname Griffis - Meaning and Origin
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A iGENEA DNA Test: Unfolding the Celtic DNA in the Griffis Lineage
The iGENEA DNA test has played a pivotal role in changing my perspective towards my family name - Griffis. The exploration of my ancestry, linking to the Celtic gene pool, has extended my understanding of 'family'. It has added an undeniable depth to my identity, redefining what it means to belong to the Griffis lineage.
D. Griffis
read moreGriffis: What does the surname Griffis mean?
The surname Griffis is of Welsh origin, deriving from the Old Welsh personal name "Gruffudd". In English, it translates to "Griffith." The name Gruffudd has roots in the words "griff," meaning "strong grip," and "udd," signifying "chief" or "lord." Therefore, the name Griffis can be interpreted as "Chief with a strong grip" or "Lord with a strong grip." Additionally, the transition from Gruffudd to Griffis would often happen when families move to England and anglicized their names to better fit in with the English society. Like many surnames, the exact significance could vary based on regional interpretations and familial traditions. The surnames Griffith and Griffin are also related to Griffis, with all having similar origins and meanings. Griffis isn't one of the most common surnames, but it has a significant presence in the United States, particularly in the South. Despite its roots in Wales, the name has travelled widely due to immigration and societal changes.
Order DNA origin analysisGriffis: Where does the name Griffis come from?
The surname Griffis is believed to have originated from Wales, deriving from the Welsh personal name Gruffudd. This name primarily develops from the elements "griff", meaning fierce, and "udd", meaning chief or lord. The name may also have Medieval English origins from the name Griffin, used to denote some physical characteristic of a legendary creature, part eagle and part lion. Nowadays, the surname is quite common in the United States, especially in North Carolina, Georgia, Texas, and some other parts of the English-speaking world including Canada and Australia. It is also sparingly found in parts of Wales and the United Kingdom, where it likely originated, although it is much less common there. As with many surnames, changes in spelling over time and across different regions are common, and Griffis can also be found as Griffin, Griffith, Griffis, etc. Overall, it is a relatively unique and storied surname with roots in both Celtic and Anglo-Saxon tradition.
Variations of the surname Griffis
The surname Griffis may have a variety of alternative spellings, origins, and derivatives. Some of these include Griffith, Griffiths, Griffits, Griffeth, Gruffudd, Gruffydd, and Griffin. These versions of the name predominantly stem from Welsh, Scottish, and Irish roots.
The name originated from the Old Welsh personal name having components ‘griff’ meaning strong grip and ‘udd’ meaning chief or lord, which then evolved into the Welsh name Gruffydd and later into Griffith. The "-s" or "-is" at the end of the name typically indicates possession or son of, hence Griffiths or Griffis could mean "son of Griffith".
Griffis, Griffith, and Griffiths are commonly recognizable in the U.S., UK, Australia, and Wales in particular. Any changes in spelling could have resulted from a clerical error at immigration or a deliberate change by the family to assimilate into a new culture or country.
Notably, certain variants like Griffin and Griffiths are more widespread and famous due to the historical and notable figures associated with these last names. Also, some variants might represent slight deviations in meaning or societal status within the original linguistic context.
Famous people with the name Griffis
- Elliot Griffis: An American composer and conductor, known for his orchestral compositions and his pioneering work in radio broadcasting.
- William Elliot Griffis: An American orientalist, congregational minister, lecturer, and prolific author, best known for his writings on Japan and Korea.
- Alexander McGuire Griffis: An American landscape artist, known for his Impressionist landscapes of Southern California.
- Ryan Griffis: An American artist, writer, and educator, whose work engages with landscapes and their representations in popular culture.
- Kyle Griffis: A popular Beat Maker and music producer who has worked with several major artists.
- Burton W. F. Griffis: Was a United States Army Lieutenant General who served as Assistant Vice Chief of Staff of the Army.
- Samuel M. Griffis: is an academic and author with strong fluency in Chinese and Japanese language. These individuals have gained prominence in their respective fields, each contributing to society through their specific talents and accomplishments.