Dennis

Dennis is a surname of English origin, derived from the medieval given name Denis, which in turn comes from the Latin name Dionysius, referring to the Greek god of wine, Dionysos. The name became popular in England after the Norman Conquest of 1066 and has since evolved into a prominent surname.

Origin and Distribution:

The surname Dennis is primarily found in England, particularly in regions with historical Norman influence. Over time, it has spread to other English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, due to migration and settlement patterns.

Notable Individuals:

The surname Dennis has been borne by various notable individuals throughout history. Some of these include:

  • John Dennis (1658–1734): An English critic, playwright, and innovator in English drama.
  • Sandy Dennis (1937–1992): An American actress known for her performances in film, television, and stage.
  • Nigel Dennis (1912–1989): An English writer, critic, and playwright.
  • Ronald Dennis (b. 1947): A British businessman known for his association with Formula One racing team McLaren.

Cultural Significance:

The surname Dennis has featured in literature, film, and popular culture, adding to its broader cultural significance. It has also been used as a character name in various works of fiction, contributing to its recognition among audiences.

Over the centuries, the surname Dennis has maintained its presence and relevance within British and global society, reflecting a rich history and diverse contributions to various fields of endeavor.

There are approximately 19,237 people named Dennis in the UK. That makes it the 448th most common surname in Britain. Around 295 in a million people in Britain are named Dennis.

Surname type: From given name or forename

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

  • Andrew
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Robert

Female

  • Elizabeth
  • Jean
  • Jennifer
  • Julie
  • Karen
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan

BritishSurnames.uk is a Good Stuff website.