What does Wallis mean and where does it come from?
Wallis is derived from the Old English word for 'Welshman' (Welsh) and was originally used as a surname before becoming a given name. It gained popularity as a first name in the 20th century, particularly after the famous American socialite Wallis Simpson, the Duchess of Windsor, who was noted for h
Cultural significance
Wallis has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of old english.
Peak popularity
Reached #1274 in 1937 — currently #11862 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Wallis?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Wallis?
Wallis works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Wallis Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Wallis John
One syllable · timeless choice
Wallis Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Wallis Grace
One syllable · timeless choice
Wallis Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Wallis Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Wallis right now?
Falling — down 2337 spots — currently #11862 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #11862 | 8 | ▼ down 2337 · -27% births |
| 2024 | #9525 | 11 | ▼ down 8230 · -99% births |
| 2023 | #1295 | 905 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1300 | 885 | ▲ up 5 · +4% births |
| 2021 | #1305 | 855 | ▲ up 7065 · +7025% births |
| 2020 | #8370 | 12 | ▼ down 343 · -14% births |
| 2015 | #8027 | 14 | ▲ up 6585 · +133% births |
| 2005 | #14612 | 6 | ▼ down 2721 · -14% births |
| 2000 | #11891 | 7 | ▲ up 1668 · +40% births |
| 1995 | #13559 | 5 | ▼ down 5601 · -50% births |
| 1990 | #7958 | 10 | ▲ up 486 · +43% births |
| 1985 | #8444 | 7 | ▲ up 784 · +17% births |
| 1980 | #9228 | 6 | ▼ down 3851 |
| 1955 | #5377 | 6 | ▼ down 2070 · -45% births |
| 1950 | #3307 | 11 | — |
The story of Wallis
Wallis entered American naming records in 1936 and has been in use for over 88 years. With 1,139 total births recorded, Wallis remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1720 in 1940 to #1295 in 2023. Wallis is used for both genders: 45% female and 55% male.
Names that peaked alongside Wallis in 1937:
Wallis by decade
Wallis peaked in the 1930s. See all 1930s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 96 | |
| 1920s | 142 | |
| 1930s | 201 | |
| 1940s ★ | 257 | |
| 1950s | 155 | |
| 1960s | 49 | |
| 1970s | 17 | |
| 1980s | 52 | |
| 1990s | 63 | |
| 2000s | 25 | |
| 2010s | 70 | |
| 2020s | 31 | |
💎With 1,139 total births, Wallis is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Wallis?
What names sound and feel like Wallis?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Wallis also consider these
Common questions about the name Wallis
What does the name Wallis mean?
Wallis means "Old English" — 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 Wallis?
Wallis 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 Wallis?
Wallis 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.
Is Wallis a common or rare name?
Wallis is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Wallis more of a girl or boy name?
Wallis is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.