What does Arlis mean and where does it come from?
Arlis is a modern name popularized in the United States, potentially originating as a variant of the Old English name Arley or from the combination of names like Alice and Arlene. The name symbolizes nobility and commitment, which resonates with many parents seeking positive traits for their childre
Cultural significance
Arlis has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a pledge or promise.
Peak popularity
Reached #1176 in 1935 — currently #1953 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Arlis?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Arlis?
Arlis works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Arlis Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Arlis Rose
Floral · soft ending
Arlis Mae
Sweet · timeless
Arlis Claire
French influence · crisp
Arlis Jane
Literary · strong
Arlis Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Arlis right now?
Holding steady — currently #1953 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1953 | 247 | ▲ up 5 · +9% births |
| 2022 | #1958 | 227 | ▲ up 5 · +15% births |
| 2021 | #1963 | 197 | ▲ up 4570 · +3840% births |
| 1960 | #6533 | 5 | ▼ down 3390 · -64% births |
| 1955 | #3143 | 14 | ▼ down 428 · -7% births |
| 1950 | #2715 | 15 | ▼ down 858 · -29% births |
| 1945 | #1857 | 21 | ▲ up 20 · +11% births |
| 1940 | #1877 | 19 | ▼ down 701 · -49% births |
| 1935 | #1176 | 37 | ▲ up 308 · +32% births |
| 1930 | #1484 | 28 | ▲ up 693 · +56% births |
| 1925 | #2177 | 18 | ▲ up 1277 · +100% births |
| 1920 | #3454 | 9 | ▲ up 1019 · +80% births |
| 1915 | #4473 | 5 | ▼ down 1809 |
| 1910 | #2664 | 5 | — |
The story of Arlis
Arlis entered American naming records in 1910 and has been in use for over 114 years. With 2,674 total births recorded, Arlis remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2664 in 1910 to #1953 in 2023. Arlis is used for both genders: 30% female and 70% male.
Names that peaked alongside Arlis in 1935:
Arlis by decade
Arlis peaked in the 1930s. See all 1930s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1900s | 5 | |
| 1910s | 167 | |
| 1920s | 510 | |
| 1930s ★ | 637 | |
| 1940s | 519 | |
| 1950s | 321 | |
| 1960s | 155 | |
| 1970s | 79 | |
| 1980s | 56 | |
| 1990s | 57 | |
| 2000s | 53 | |
| 2010s | 109 | |
| 2020s | 6 | |
💎With 2,674 total births, Arlis is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Arlis?
What names sound and feel like Arlis?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Arlis also consider these
Common questions about the name Arlis
What does the name Arlis mean?
Arlis means "A pledge or promise" — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Arlis?
Arlis is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Arlis?
Arlis originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Arlis?
Arlis is a two-syllable name pronounced AA1 R L IH1 S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Arlis a common or rare name?
Arlis is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.