Boy · 107th of 7,545
Morris
Meaning, origin and U.S. popularity at a glance
71,392
Total Births
145
Years of Data
1918
Peak Popularity Year
1,690
Peak Births
Generational story
Where Morris stands across generations
Rankings for U.S. births from 2013 to 2024.
Based on the most recent three-year movement in the national data.
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Meaning, origin & U.S. popularity
Summary
The name Morris originates from the Latin name Mauritius, meaning 'dark-skinned' or 'Moorish.' It evolved through various forms, including Maurus and Old French before becoming popular in English. The name is associated with a traditional and stable image, and while it does not have biblical relevance, it has been borne by notable figures throughout history.
Etymology & cultural background Open the full meaning, origin, history, and variants
Etymology & Cultural Background
Pronunciation
/ˈmɒrɪs/
Origin
Latin
Etymology
The name Morris is derived from the Latin name 'Mauritius,' which means 'dark-skinned' or 'Moorish.' It was originally used to describe someone from North Africa or with darker complexion.
Meaning
dark-skinned, Moorish
Language Evolution
Mauritius (Latin), Maurus (Latin), Morris (Old French)
Historical Usage
Morris gained popularity in the English-speaking world during the Middle Ages as a surname and later as a given name. It became more common among English speakers after the Norman Conquest.
Variants & Derivatives
Morice, Maurice, Morrie, Morrison
Modern Popularity & Image
Morris is perceived as a traditional name that conveys a sense of heritage and stability. It has seen fluctuating popularity but remains a recognizable and respected name.
Famous People
Morris Chestnut, Morris Day, Morris Fishbein, Morris Kline
Trend Analysis
Boy Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
3-Year Trend:
Stable
25-Year Trend:
Relatively Stable
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
3-Year Trend:
Stable
25-Year Trend:
Relatively Stable
Explore popularity by location
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Key Insights
Popularity Trend
Highly Popular name with 1,690 peak births in 1918
Geographic Spread
Popular across 50 US states, with strongest presence in Louisiana
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 12 different American generations with varying popularity
Alternative spellings & similar sounds
Compare 7 names that share a similar pronunciation but use different spellings.
Historical Birth Statistics
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History
Full popularity table across American generations 12 generation and gender records
Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Recorded births |
|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) | Boy | 107th of 7545 | 26,275 |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) | Boy | 169th of 6773 | 16,573 |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Boy | 259th of 7552 | 15,041 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Boy | 454th of 10718 | 5,218 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Boy | 739th of 16616 | 2,743 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Boy | 1450th of 24088 | 1,578 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Boy | 1644th of 23106 | 1,190 |
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) | Girl | 3138th of 9107 | 151 |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) | Girl | 3094th of 9204 | 157 |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Girl | 4656th of 12526 | 136 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Girl | 12822nd of 19264 | 23 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Girl | 20558th of 27321 | 16 |