Kerris is a unique and distinctive given name of Scottish origin. The name is derived from the Scottish surname Kerr, which is believed to have originated from one of two possible sources: either from the Gaelic word "cairt" meaning "spear," or from the Old English word "cyre" meaning "cauldron."
The surname Kerr was borne by a prominent family in Scotland who were descended from a Norman noble named Cospatrick. The family coat of arms features three red hearts on a gold background, which is said to represent their courage and bravery in battle.
Over time, the name Kerr has been adapted and used as a given name for both boys and girls. However, it is still relatively uncommon compared to other Scottish names such as Fiona or Callum.
There are no specific historical figures associated with the name Kerris, but it is possible that the name may have been inspired by notable individuals with the surname Kerr throughout history. For example, Thomas Kerr was a 17th-century Scottish mathematician and physicist who made significant contributions to the study of optics.
Today, Kerris remains a unique and interesting choice for parents looking for a distinctive name with Scottish origins. Its meaning "spear" or "cauldron" adds to its allure, suggesting strength and resilience in one's life journey. Despite its rarity, Kerris is not gender-specific and can be used for either boys or girls, making it an adaptable choice for parents seeking something special and meaningful.
The name Kerris has seen a consistent, but relatively low number of births in the United States over the past few decades. Between 1991 and 2017, there were a total of 49 babies named Kerris born in the US.
The peak year for the name was 2013, with 8 births recorded that year. The years with the lowest number of births were 1991, 1999, 2008, 2009, 2011, and 2015-2017, each with just 5 births.
Despite these fluctuations, the name Kerris has maintained a steady presence in the US birth records over this period. However, it remains relatively uncommon compared to more popular names.