Wallis is a unique and elegant given name of Welsh origin. It is derived from the surname "Wallis," which is believed to have originated from the Welsh word "wall" meaning "foreign" or "strange." However, there is also speculation that Wallis could be derived from the Old English word "weall," meaning "wall."
The name Wallis has been used as both a masculine and feminine given name throughout history. In the Middle Ages, it was often used as a boy's name, likely due to its association with the Welsh surname Wallis. However, in modern times, Wallis is more commonly used as a girl's name.
One of the most famous individuals named Wallis was Wallis Simpson, an American socialite who became the Duchess of Windsor after marrying Prince Edward VIII. Their relationship and eventual marriage caused quite a scandal at the time, as King Edward VIII abdicated the throne to marry Simpson, who was previously divorced twice. Despite this controversial history, the name Wallis has remained popular and continues to be chosen by parents today.
Overall, Wallis is an attractive and distinctive given name with a rich history and intriguing origins. Whether you're looking for a unique name for your daughter or simply interested in learning more about this lesser-known name, Wallis is certainly worth considering.
The name Wallis shows significant fluctuations in popularity over the years, with peaks and valleys reflecting broader cultural trends. The highest number of births occurred in 1936 (22 births) and 1940 (26 births), which were periods of increased naming after prominent figures or events. Conversely, there are several years where fewer than 5 babies named Wallis were born, such as in 1952 (7 births) and 1969 (5 births). Overall, the name Wallis has been used 625 times over this period.