Hollis

Hollis is a unisex name of English origin meaning “Dweller by the holly”, pronounced HOL-iss. It ranked #894 in the United States in 2025, given to 266 babies, and peaked at #292 in 1908. Common nicknames: Holly, Hol.

GenderUnisex
OriginEnglish
MeaningDweller by the holly
PronunciationHOL-iss

How popular is Hollis in the United States?

#894Rank in 2025
266Births in 2025
#292 in 1908Peak Popularity
↑ Rising10-Year Trend

Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.

What does Hollis mean, and where does it come from?

Hollis is an English surname for someone who lived beside a holly tree — from Old English holegn, with the -is an old plural. It has been in American birth records since 1880, peaked in 1908 and spent the century drifting between the sexes before settling into its present near-even split. It is rising again now, carried by the same current as Ellis, Hollis's near-twin, and by the taste for unisex surname names that sound as though they have been in the family for generations, which in many cases they have.

How is Hollis used around the world?

Hollis is used in 1 languages worldwide.

Languages
English
Details

TypeUnisex name

Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.

What are the nicknames for Hollis?

HollyHol

Famous People Named Hollis

  • Hollis Conway — American high jumper and two-time Olympic medallist
  • Hollis Frampton — American avant-garde filmmaker and photographer
  • Hollis Thompson — American professional basketball player

Similar Names to Hollis

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Also consider:Wallis

Sibling Name Ideas for Hollis

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Hollis mean?

Hollis is a unisex name of English origin meaning "Dweller by the holly." Hollis is an English surname for someone who lived beside a holly tree — from Old English holegn, with the -is an old plural. It has been in American birth records since 1880, peaked in 1908 and spent the century drifting between the sexes before settling into its present near-even split.

How do you pronounce Hollis?

Hollis is pronounced HOL-iss. Common variations include Hollys, Holliss, Hollie.

Is Hollis a unisex name?

Yes, Hollis is traditionally a unisex name. Popular nicknames include Holly, Hol.

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