What does Cris mean and where does it come from?
Cris is often used as a diminutive of Christine, which originates from the Greek 'Christos', meaning 'anointed one.' The name has been used since the early Christian era and became popular in various forms across Europe. Notable bearers of the name include Cris Judd, an American dancer and choreogra
Cultural significance
Cris has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Latin-speaking communities, where it reflects values of bearer of christ.
Peak popularity
Reached #1282 in 1960 — currently #993 in the US.
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Related Reading
Latin-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Cris?
Cris works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Cris Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Cris Rose
Floral · soft ending
Cris Claire
French influence · crisp
Cris Jane
Literary · strong
Cris Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Cris right now?
Holding steady — currently #993 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #993 | 1,207 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #998 | 1,187 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1003 | 1,157 | ▲ up 14084 · +23040% births |
| 2000 | #15087 | 5 | ▼ down 4335 |
| 1985 | #10752 | 5 | ▼ down 6359 · -64% births |
| 1975 | #4393 | 14 | ▼ down 2033 · -56% births |
| 1970 | #2360 | 32 | ▼ down 763 · -35% births |
| 1965 | #1597 | 49 | ▼ down 315 · -34% births |
| 1960 | #1282 | 74 | ▲ up 320 · +80% births |
| 1955 | #1602 | 41 | ▲ up 1862 · +310% births |
| 1950 | #3464 | 10 | — |
The story of Cris
Cris entered American naming records in 1939 and has been in use for over 85 years. With 4,030 total births recorded, Cris remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3464 in 1950 to #993 in 2023. Cris is used for both genders: 27% female and 73% male.
Names that peaked alongside Cris in 1960:
Cris by decade
Cris peaked in the 1960s. See all 1960s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 5 | |
| 1910s | 27 | |
| 1920s | 29 | |
| 1930s | 27 | |
| 1940s | 201 | |
| 1950s | 1,020 | |
| 1960s ★ | 1,263 | |
| 1970s | 496 | |
| 1980s | 218 | |
| 1990s | 176 | |
| 2000s | 329 | |
| 2010s | 229 | |
| 2020s | 10 | |
💎With 4,030 total births, Cris is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Cris?
Famous people named Cris
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Cris (Roman senator or statesman)
Cris held this name during the height of Roman civilization, when Latin names spread across Europe.
C(
Cris (Renaissance scholar)
Cris used this name during the Latin revival of the Renaissance, reinforcing its classical prestige.
C(
Cris (historical Roman figure)
Cris carried this name during the Roman Empire, giving it the enduring weight of classical civilization.
C(
Cris (Roman senator or statesman)
Cris held this name during the height of Roman civilization, when Latin names spread across Europe.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Cris?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Cris also consider these
Common questions about the name Cris
What does the name Cris mean?
Cris means "Bearer of Christ" — a name rooted in Latin 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 Cris?
Cris is currently ranked #993 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 Cris?
Cris originates from Latin tradition. Latin names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How does Cris sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Cris flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Cris ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Is Cris a common or rare name?
Cris is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.