All about the name

Dorris

Female

« Dorris is an American given name of Latin origin, derived from the English surname Doris and meaning "sea gift" in Greek elements. »

#1953 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Dorris is a unique and distinctive given name of American origin. It is derived from the English surname Doris, which was originally a pet form of the Latin name Dorothy. The name Dorothy itself comes from the Greek elements doron, meaning "gift," and therasia, signifying "of the sea." Thus, the combined meaning of Dorris is "sea gift." The name Dorris gained popularity during the late 19th to mid-20th centuries in the United States. It was often used as a feminine given name but has also been recorded as a masculine name occasionally. Despite its rarity today, Dorris once enjoyed moderate success among parents seeking distinctive names for their children. Some notable figures with the name Dorris include American poet and author Dorris Lessing (1919-2013), who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2007, and Canadian painter Doris McCarthy (1910-2000), known for her vibrant landscapes. These individuals demonstrate that although uncommon today, the name Dorris has been carried by accomplished and notable figures throughout history. In summary, Dorris is an American name of Latin origin with a unique meaning derived from its roots in Greek elements. While not widely used currently, it was once popular among parents looking for distinctive names for their children. Throughout history, several notable individuals have carried this name, contributing to its enduring legacy.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Dorris since 1880

Total births
7,360
Total since 1880
Peak year
1924
304 births
in 1990
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years