Lillis

Lillis is a surname of English and Irish origin. The name is derived from the medieval personal name Elias, a Hebrew name meaning "the Lord is my God". Over time, the name Elias evolved into different forms in various regions, with Lillis being a common variant.

Origin and Distribution

The surname Lillis is found predominantly in the British Isles, particularly in England and Ireland. In Ireland, Lillis is most prevalent in the western counties such as Clare, Limerick, and Tipperary. The name has ancient roots in these regions and is associated with various notable families and individuals.

Notable Individuals

  • Edmund Lillis (1765–1837) – A British politician and social reformer who played a key role in advocating for education and workers' rights during the Industrial Revolution.
  • Siobhán Lillis (b. 1952) – A renowned Irish actress known for her work on stage and screen, with a career spanning several decades.

Variants

Variants of the surname Lillis include Lillies, Lillys, and Lillice, among others, reflecting the different phonetic interpretations of the name over time and across regions.

Legacy

The surname Lillis carries with it a rich history and a connection to British and Irish heritage. Today, individuals bearing the surname continue to contribute to various fields, upholding the family name's legacy and significance.

There are approximately 651 people named Lillis in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around ten in a million people in Britain are named Lillis.

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

  • Brian
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Maurice
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Robert
  • Shaun

Female

  • Amanda
  • Catherine
  • Claire
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Gillian
  • Jean
  • Karen
  • Kerry
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Sandra
  • Sarah
  • Valerie

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