Last Name Griffis

Learn more about the origin of the last name Griffis

The meaning and origin of the last name Griffis

The surname Griffis has an interesting origin and meaning. It is believed to be a variant spelling of the Welsh surname Griffith(s), derived from the given name "Gruffydd." The name "Gruffydd" itself stems from the Old Welsh elements "griff," meaning "strong" or "fierce," and "udd," meaning "prince" or "lord." The name Griffis therefore carries the connotations of a strong and powerful ruler or leader. The name Griffis is predominantly found among English and Welsh communities. It is thought to have originated in Wales, a country with a rich history and distinct culture, known for its ancient kings and princes. Over time, as families migrated or anglicized their names, the surname might have undergone changes in spelling, leading to variations such as Griffis. Today, individuals bearing the surname Griffis can be found in various parts of the world, particularly in English-speaking countries where Welsh and English populations have intermixed.

Geographical distribution of the last name Griffis

The last name Griffis has a relatively widespread geographical distribution. It is primarily found in the United States, with a significant concentration in the southern states such as Texas, Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia. This could be attributed to historical migration patterns and settlement in these regions. Additionally, Griffis can also be found in other parts of North America, including Canada, particularly in the provinces of Ontario and British Columbia. It has also been recorded in smaller numbers in other countries, such as the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. The name's presence in these countries may be due to immigration and the dispersal of families over time. Overall, while the name Griffis exhibits a more prominent presence in the United States, it has managed to extend its geographical reach to various other regions around the world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Griffis

The last name 'Griffis' is most commonly spelled as 'Griffis' itself. However, there are also several variations and alternate spellings that have been recorded over time. These variations include 'Griffes,' 'Griffiths,' 'Griffith,' 'Griffis,' 'Griffiss,' 'Gryffes,' 'Gryffis,' and 'Gryffiss.' Each of these variations may have originated from different regions or branches of the family tree, as well as through phonetic changes or clerical errors in historical documents. The variations in spelling can be attributed to migration, dialectal differences, or changes resulting from immigration officers' interpretation of pronunciation. Despite the different spellings, these variations often represent branches of the same ancestral lineage, and individuals with any of these spellings may be part of the larger Griffis family.

Famous people with the last name Griffis

There have been notable individuals with the last name Griffis across various fields throughout history. One such prominent figure is William Elliot Griffis (1843-1928), a renowned American author, educator, and minister. He dedicated his life to fostering cultural understanding between Japan and the United States, becoming one of the leading experts on Japanese culture during the late 19th century. Another notable Griffis is David Griffis, an influential bishop in the Church of God, a Pentecostal denomination. Bishop Griffis has served in numerous leadership positions within the church and has made significant contributions to its growth and development. In the music industry, we find Felton Pilate Griffis, known as Felton Pilate, a talented musician and record producer who achieved fame as a member of the popular band Con Funk Shun. His contributions to funk music have left a lasting impact on the genre. These individuals exemplify the diverse achievements and influence of those with the last name Griffis.

Genealogical research on the last name Griffis

The last name Griffis has its origins in Europe, particularly in England and Wales. The surname is derived from the Old Welsh personal name "Gruffudd" or "Gruffydd," which translates to "strong lord" or "mighty chief." Over time, the surname Griffis or its variations, such as Griffiths or Gryffiths, spread across the British Isles. In terms of its migration, the Griffis name made its way across the Atlantic Ocean to the United States during the 17th and 18th centuries. Many individuals with the surname settled in various regions, notably in North Carolina, Georgia, and New York. Genealogical research on the Griffis family would involve delving into historical records, census data, and family trees to trace the lineage of individuals with this last name. It would provide insights into their ancestors, extended family connections, and geographical movements. Additionally, with the advent of DNA testing, many people carrying the Griffis name or variant spellings may discover distant relatives and uncover previously unknown branches of their family tree.