What does Kellis mean and where does it come from?
Kellis is a name with origins in both the United States and Ireland. In Irish, it can be derived from the word meaning 'from the narrow woods.' Its use has fluctuated over the years, often seen as a modern and stylish variation of more traditional names. Kellis has been used in literature and popula
Cultural significance
Kellis has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of from the narrow woods.
Peak popularity
Reached #7779 in 2007 — currently #1706 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Kellis?
Kellis works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kellis Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Kellis Rose
Floral · soft ending
Kellis Mae
Sweet · timeless
Kellis Claire
French influence · crisp
Kellis Jane
Literary · strong
Kellis Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Kellis right now?
Holding steady — currently #1706 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1706 | 494 | ▲ up 5 · +4% births |
| 2022 | #1711 | 474 | ▲ up 5 · +7% births |
| 2021 | #1716 | 444 | ▲ up 12911 · +7300% births |
| 2015 | #14627 | 6 | ▼ down 3600 · -33% births |
| 2005 | #11027 | 9 | — |
The story of Kellis
Kellis is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 2001. With 215 total births recorded, Kellis remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #11027 in 2005 to #1706 in 2023. Kellis is used for both genders: 48% female and 52% male.
Names that peaked alongside Kellis in 2007:
Kellis by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 11 | |
| 1920s | 16 | |
| 1940s | 14 | |
| 1950s | 5 | |
| 1960s | 11 | |
| 1970s | 11 | |
| 1980s | 6 | |
| 1990s | 12 | |
| 2000s ★ | 97 | |
| 2010s | 32 | |
💎Kellis has only 215 total recorded births since 2001 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Kellis?
What names sound and feel like Kellis?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kellis also consider these
Common questions about the name Kellis
What does the name Kellis mean?
Kellis means "from the narrow woods" — 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 Kellis?
Kellis 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 Kellis?
Kellis 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 Kellis?
Kellis is a two-syllable name pronounced K EH1 L IH0 S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Kellis a common or rare name?
Kellis is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.