HOME > What Origin is the Last Name Harris?
Introduction
The last name Harris is a common surname that has a rich history and diverse origins. It is a patronymic name, which means it is derived from the father's first name. The name Harris has different variations, including Harrison, Harry, and Harries. In this article, we will explore the different origins of the name Harris and its significance in various cultures and regions.
English Origin
The Harris surname has English origins and is derived from the given name Harry, which is a medieval form of Henry. The name Henry was a popular name among the Norman nobility who invaded England in the 11th century. The name Harry was used as a nickname for Henry and was later adopted as a surname. The Harris surname is most common in southern England, particularly in the counties of Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset.
Welsh Origin
The Harris surname also has Welsh origins and is derived from the Welsh name ap Harry, which means 'son of Harry.' The Welsh patronymic naming system was used until the 16th century, and the ap prefix was later dropped. The Harris surname is most common in Wales, particularly in the counties of Glamorgan and Monmouthshire.
Scottish Origin
The Harris surname has Scottish origins and is derived from the Gaelic name Mac Giolla Charraigh, which means 'son of the servant of St. Charraig.' The name Charraig was a personal name that was associated with a saint in Scotland. The Mac Giolla Charraigh name was later anglicized to Harris. The Harris surname is most common in the Scottish Highlands and Islands.
Irish Origin
The Harris surname also has Irish origins and is derived from the Gaelic name O' hEarchaidh, which means 'descendant of Earchadh.' The name Earchadh was a personal name that was popular in Ireland in the Middle Ages. The O' hEarchaidh name was later anglicized to Harris. The Harris surname is most common in the province of Munster in Ireland.
Jewish Origin
The Harris surname also has Jewish origins and is derived from the Hebrew name HaCohen, which means 'the priest.' The name HaCohen was a title given to members of the Jewish priestly class who were descendants of Aaron, the brother of Moses. The Harris surname is most common among Jewish communities in Europe and North America.
African American Origin
The Harris surname also has African American origins and is derived from the names of slave owners who owned African American slaves. Many African Americans adopted the surnames of their slave owners after they were emancipated from slavery. The Harris surname is most common among African American communities in the southern United States.
Famous People with the Last Name Harris
The Harris surname is a common surname, and many famous people have had this last name. Some of the notable people with the last name Harris include Kamala Harris, the Vice President of the United States; Neil Patrick Harris, an American actor; Calvin Harris, a Scottish DJ and producer; and Naomie Harris, a British actress.
Conclusion
The last name Harris has a rich history and diverse origins. It is a patronymic name that is derived from the father's first name. The Harris surname has English, Welsh, Scottish, Irish, Jewish, and African American origins. The name Harris is most common in the United Kingdom, particularly in England, Wales, and Scotland. The Harris surname is also common among Jewish communities in Europe and North America and African American communities in the southern United States. The Harris surname has been adopted by many famous people, including Kamala Harris, Neil Patrick Harris, Calvin Harris, and Naomie Harris.
