CHRIS
Chris
Origin and Meaning The surname Chris is of Greek origin, derived from the personal name Christian, which means follower of Christ. The name Christian was introduced to England in the Middle Ages by the Crusaders and pilgrims returning from the Holy Land.
Distribution The surname Chris is relatively rare in the United Kingdom, with the highest concentration found in England. It is most commonly found in the southern regions of England, particularly in London and the surrounding counties.
Notable People Notable individuals bearing the surname Chris include:
- Thomas Chris (1801–1875), a prominent British politician and advocate for social reform.
- Sarah Chris (b. 1982), a renowned British actress known for her performances in various stage and screen productions.
- Jonathan Chris (b. 1965), a distinguished British scientist and researcher in the field of climate change.
Coat of Arms The Chris family crest features a shield adorned with symbols such as crosses and heraldic devices that represent courage, faith, and family heritage. The crest is often displayed as a sign of pride and lineage amongst those who bear the surname.
Modern Usage While the surname Chris may not be as prevalent as some other British surnames, it continues to be passed down through generations, maintaining a connection to its historical roots. In modern times, individuals with the surname Chris can be found across various professions and walks of life, contributing to the diverse tapestry of British society.
There are approximately 824 people named Chris in the UK. That makes it roughly the 8,584th most common surname in Britain. Around 13 in a million people in Britain are named Chris.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Ben
- David
- Efosa
- Fleming
- James
- John
- Matthew
- Michael
- Oliver
- Paul
- Peter
- Robert
- Thomas
Female
- Bettina
- Beverley
- Carole
- Collett
- Edna
- Elizabeth
- Frances
- Julie
- Kelly
- Maria
- Sandra
- Sophia
- Susan
- Valerie