Wallis

Wallis is a surname of British origin, derived from the Old English personal name "Waleis" or "Walensis", meaning a Welshman or someone from Wales. The surname is primarily found in England and Scotland.

Origins

The Wallis surname is thought to have originated in the Border regions of England and Scotland, where there was historical interaction with the Welsh people. The name could have been adopted as a nickname for someone who had traits associated with the Welsh or as an identifier for someone who had migrated from Wales to England.

Distribution and Variants

The Wallis surname is fairly common in the United Kingdom, with concentrations in areas such as Yorkshire, Lancashire, and London. Variants of the name include Wallace, Walis, Wallice, and Walleys.

Notable People

Sir John Wallis (1616 - 1703)

A prominent English mathematician who made significant contributions to the fields of algebra and calculus. Known for his work on infinitesimal calculus and his role in the development of modern mathematics.

Duchess of Windsor, Wallis Simpson (1896 - 1986)

An American socialite who became a prominent figure in British society through her marriage to King Edward VIII. Their relationship led to the abdication crisis of 1936, when Edward gave up the throne to marry Wallis.

Legacy

The Wallis surname carries a rich history in British culture, with notable individuals making contributions to various fields. The name continues to be passed down through generations, preserving its heritage and significance in the British naming tradition.

In conclusion, the Wallis surname is a prominent British family name with deep-rooted historical connections to Wales and significant contributions to mathematics and society.

There are approximately 18,100 people named Wallis in the UK. That makes it the 484th most common surname in Britain. Around 278 in a million people in Britain are named Wallis.

Surname type: Diminutive

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

Female

  • Angela
  • Claire
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Helen
  • Jacqueline
  • Jane
  • Linda
  • Margaret
  • Nicola
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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