Surname Bullis - Meaning and Origin
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Bullis: What does the surname Bullis mean?
The surname Bullis is of Medieval English origin, derived from a nickname for a person who was thought to resemble a bull in characteristics, such as strength or stubbornness. The surname comes from the Middle English word "bullen," which means "to bellow like a bull." Its origin can also be traced to places named Bullis or Bwllys in Wales. It could also possibly be of Greek origin, as there are records of it being used in Greek communities. However, more specific details about its meaning in Greek are not known. Despite these origins, the Bullis surname today is used by individuals and observed in countries around the world due to migration and intermarriage.
Order DNA origin analysisBullis: Where does the name Bullis come from?
The surname Bullis is believed to have originated from Anglo-Saxon tribes in Britain. It is derived from the Old English personal name "Bul", associated with the Middle English word "bullen", meaning to roar or to bellow. The surname might have emerged as a nickname for someone who was loud and boisterous.
The Bullis surname is quite rare and predominantly found in the United States today. The highest concentrations are in New York, followed by Michigan and California, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. There is also a presence of the Bullis surname in Canada and England, although it is quite minimal. Considering its Anglo-Saxon origins, the surname may have been carried to these regions by settlers and immigrants from Britain.
The 1920 US Census recorded the largest number of Bullis families living in New York, and in 1840, two Bullis families were found in New York, which was the top reported state for Bullis. It's important to note, however, that the surname is extremely uncommon and its distribution might be the result of migration patterns rather than a reflection of its origins.
Variations of the surname Bullis
The surname Bullis does not have many known variants or alternative spellings. It is believed to be of British origin and might have been derived from several possible origins, such as "Bulls," a nickname for a keeper of a bull; a patronymic form of "Bull," a person with a strong, ferocious disposition; or a locational surname derived from a place named Bull or Bulls.
In terms of associated surnames, it is challenging to establish definitive connections because surnames evolved gradually and were often influenced by geographic location, occupation, and even personal attributes. The surname Bullis might be associated with surnames like Bull, Bulloch, Bullock, or Boolish, which have similar phonetic aspects and potentially shared roots. However, it's essential to consider that these connections are speculative and broad and not confirmed genealogically.
Understanding the specific variants or alternative spellings of the Bullis surname can be further complicated because the exact spelling of surnames has changed over time and can differ based on region and country. Connecting the surname Bullis with other surnames requires considerable genealogical research and might be impacted by various factors such as migration, dialect, and translation.
Famous people with the name Bullis
- Grant Bullis: Actor
- Don Bullis: Author
- Ryan Bullis: Businessman and former NFL player
- Wilfred Bullis: Jazz musician
- Katherine Bullis: Actress
- Nick Bullis: Writer and filmmaker
- Mark Bullis: Musician
- John Bullis: American politician
- Robert J. Bullis: American chemist
- Fred Bullis: Professional painter
- Doug Bullis: Former MLB player
- June Bullis: Professional golfer
- MJ Bullis: Radio host
- Ame Bullis: Writer and editor