Willis

Meaning

Son of William, derived from the Germanic name meaning 'resolute protector'.

Etymology

Willis is a patronymic surname formed by adding the suffix '-is' to the given name Will, a diminutive of William. The name William itself comes from Germanic elements 'wil' (will, desire) and 'helm' (helmet, protection).

About the Willis Surname

Willis emerged as a surname during the medieval period when patronymic naming conventions became hereditary in England. The name was particularly common among the merchant and artisan classes during the 13th-15th centuries.

Distribution

Primarily found in England and throughout English-speaking countries, with significant populations in the United States, Australia, and Canada.

People with the Willis Surname