Artis

Artis is an Anglo-Saxon surname that originated in England. The name is derived from the Old English word "ærtes," meaning "pea," and was likely used as an occupational surname for someone who grew or sold peas.

History

The Artis surname can be traced back to medieval times in the region of East Anglia, particularly in Norfolk and Suffolk. It was a common practice during this period for individuals to adopt surnames based on their occupations or personal attributes to distinguish themselves from others in the community. The Artis family may have been involved in agriculture or trade related to peas, leading to the adoption of this surname.

Distribution

Over the centuries, the Artis surname has spread to other parts of England and beyond. Today, individuals bearing the Artis surname can be found in various countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, among others.

Notable Individuals

  • John Artis (born 1943): An American man who was wrongfully convicted along with Rubin "Hurricane" Carter for a triple murder in 1966. Their story was later turned into a book and movie called "The Hurricane."
  • Richard Artis (1908 - 1977): A British artist known for his surrealist paintings and sculptures that often incorporated elements of nature and the subconscious.

Variants

Variants of the Artis surname include "Artes" and "Artiss." These variations may have developed over time due to differences in spelling practices or regional accents.

In conclusion, the Artis surname has a long history rooted in medieval England and has been carried by individuals in various parts of the world. The name's origins in peas and agriculture provide a glimpse into the early occupations and lives of the original bearers of this distinctive surname.

There are approximately 259 people named Artis in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around four in a million people in Britain are named Artis.

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Alan
  • Christopher
  • Darren
  • David
  • George
  • Graham
  • Iain
  • Julian
  • Michael
  • Nigel
  • Paul
  • William

Female

  • Barbara
  • Beverley
  • Caroline
  • Diane
  • Donna
  • Emma
  • Jayne
  • Laura
  • Rachel
  • Sandra
  • Sarah
  • Susan

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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